Bangkok Library Digital library and information center for Bangkok, Thailand

Thai penis amulets are a common sight in Thailand. Known in Thai as palad khik (ปลัดขิก) pronounced bpà-làt-kìk, these amulets usually measure less than 4 cm in length and may be carved from wood, bone, or horn. Amulets cast from metal (especially bronze and brass) are very common, and those cast in resin are relatively easy to find. Some amulets are plain or have very simple decoration, but others are intricately detailed, often incorporating the shapes of animals including monkeys, snakes and tigers. All have one thing in common: they are worn or carried (by Thai males) in the belief that they may afford special protection or good luck.