Phutthaloetla Naphalai

Phutthaloetla Naphalai, also known by his regnal name Rama II, was the second King of Rattanakosin from the Chakri dynasty, ruling from 1809 to 1824. In 1809, as Prince Itsarasunthon, he succeeded his father Rama I, the founder of the Chakri dynasty, to become Loetlanaphalai, King of Siam. His reign was largely peaceful, devoid of major conflicts. His reign was known as the "Golden Age of Rattanakosin Literature" as Loetlanaphalai was patron to a number of poets in his court, and the King himself was a renowned poet and artist. The most notable poet in his employ was the illustrious Sunthorn Phu, the author of Phra Aphai Mani. The rapid growth of the number of his descendants was outstanding: he is believed to have had over 240 grandchildren.