The Fine Arts Department (FAD) has begun restoring royal chariots that will be used in Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother’s cremation. The restoration is expected to be completed by October next year.
HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn yesterday presided over a ceremony for the restoration of royal chariots and ceremonial components to be used in the royal cremation ceremony at the National Museum Bangkok.
FAD director-general Phnombootra Chandrajoti said the princess instructed all parties to carry out their duties with care, paying close attention to the quality of materials and craftsmanship, including the use of mirror mosaics, to ensure the restoration proceeds smoothly.
FAD has closed the Royal Chariot Hall at the National Museum to start the work, which is being carried out in collaboration with the Army’s Ordnance Department and the Naval Dockyard Department. The work will cover five royal chariots including the Phra Maha Phichai Ratcharot, or the Great Victory Royal Chariot, along with smaller chariots, palanquins and other components.
The restoration will employ scientific methods, expert craftsmanship and traditional artistry to preserve the structures’ integrity and aesthetics, Mr Phnombootra said.
The Conservation Science Division will handle the cleaning, while artisans of the Ten Crafts or Chang Sip Mu will undertake gilding, mirror inlay and decorative works in accordance with tradition and royal standards.
“This major restoration is expected to be completed between September and October 2026, in time for the completion of the royal crematorium,” he said.
FAD has assigned its divisions to oversee various elements of the royal cremation.
The Office of Architecture has completed the initial design for the royal crematorium, ensuring adherence to ancient royal traditions, and symbolic motifs representing the late Queen Mother’s lifelong contributions, particularly in nature conservation and botanical preservation.
The Office of Performing Arts will coordinate performances for the royal ceremony, he said.