[PVaQlNaP]

Just as Peeman says Thais are generally very reasonable.

Just ask them to remove it, if need be you can tell them that you want to put a picture there of your own important person.

[AntonayPina]

we have over a dozen such pictures rolled up, in a storage room, in a box. Thai colleagues did that, not me. that would suggest to me it is not offensive to put it in a storage room or remove it. obviously, don't dump it.

[Rounteetepehryn]

On revisiting the home, it turns out the special portait is the only item on any of the walls.

That rules out even Marie's great suggestion, I think.

Would it be too terrible to move the picture to another room?? Could it be any other room -- like a storage room??

[Fosavoa]

I am not not Thai.

I would request that all the walls be absolutely cleared of any hangings or decors before I move in. (And if necessary I might add that this symbolizes that I intend to start my life in the new house with a clean slate.)

Diplomatic words. Very clever as usual !!

[Rounteetepehryn]

My question is serious and is not hypothetical. I cannot ask a Thai about this issue, for obvious resaons.

If about to move into a semi-furnished home in Thailand, how would one deal with the highly delicate topic of portraits of a very important person in this country? You'd all know these can be very large and prominently displayed.

Is there any discreet and inoffensive way to indicate that one would prefer for these furnishings not to be kept in the home, before moving in?

If these had not been removed at the time of moving in to the rented property, what could one do if they did not wish to have these paintings remain on display (especially assuming the owners/their relatives might visit from time to time)?

Thanks for any suggestions.

[gagagaridze]

There must be a consensus between you and the house owner before you moving in.I dont think the house owner will be so strict on that matters.You should discuss with him/her regarding your preferences and to settle all the differences before settling in or before making any commitment.Most Thai peoples are very considerate and understanding if you tell them politely.

[AntonayPina]

I work with Thais in a Thai school. every year, we get new calendars that are stapled to a new portrait, so we have about 20 large sheets of paper with various different kinds now. Thais don't throw them away even if they are torn and stained. we keep all of them rolled up in a paper box in our storage room. we always keep one in the classroom because in schools it is compulsory to display it beside the Thai flag.

[Rounteetepehryn]

Marie,

Thanks! That sounds like a really good way of going about it, particularly if mentioned while looking at some other item hanging on the wall.

More suggestions or experiences welcomed!

[RayFairhurst]

I am not not Thai.

I would request that all the walls be absolutely cleared of any hangings or decors before I move in. (And if necessary I might add that this symbolizes that I intend to start my life in the new house with a clean slate.)