Bangkok: Suphajee led the team to the site to monitor the progress of the construction of the royal crematorium.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, along with Minister of Culture, Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Mr. Prasop Riangngern, and Director-General of the Fine Arts Department, Mr. Phanombut Chantharachote, inspected the progress of the construction of the royal crematorium, its accompanying structures, and the restoration of the royal chariots and palanquins for the royal cremation ceremony of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.
The overall construction of the royal crematorium and its accompanying structures is 23.65% complete. The foundations are finished, the structural work is 50% complete, and the architectural work is 10% complete. The structure of the Phra Thinang Song Tham is 60% complete. The Sala Luk Khun, Thap Kaset, and Tim are progressing according to plan. The foundations for the pavilion in front of the Phra Thinang Sutthaisawan Prasat are complete, while the foundations for the temporary pavilions in front of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkalaram and Sanam Luang are currently under construction.
Regarding the artwork, including the interior paintings of the royal crematorium and the Phra Thinang Song Tham (Royal Pavilion), as well as important sculptures such as the Brahma faces, seated angels, angels holding ceremonial fans, standing angels, and the swan pillars, the process is currently underway.
While the designs for the sandalwood urn, sandalwood casket, sandalwood bouquets, and sandalwood firewood have been completed in 10 different styles and some production has already begun, the designs for the royal urn for the royal ashes and the reliquary for the royal cremation ashes have also been finalized.
As for the ceremonial items such as bookshelves, work desks with chairs, altar tables, mother-of-pearl inlaid trays, and ceremonial lamps, the designs are complete and ready for construction. In addition, the restoration and renovation of the royal chariots, palanquins, and other important ceremonial items, such as the Phra Maha Phichai Royal Chariot, the Vejayanta Royal Chariot, the Phraya Nanmas Sam Lam Khan, and the Phra Rajendrayan Royal Palanquin, continues with conservation and detailed decoration using scientific methods and fine arts to ensure they are in perfect condition for the royal ceremonies.
In addition, the Fine Arts Department, through its Bureau of Ten Craftsmen, was also assigned to make ceremonial fans for the royal cremation ceremony, ceremonial fans for offering to Chinese and Vietnamese monks, and bags. The Sirikit Institute was responsible for the embroidery.