The King Prajadhipok Museum: A Journey Through Time
The captivating journey of the King Prajadhipok Museum building in Bangkok.
King Prajadhipok Museum Building (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
A Meeting Place of History
The King Prajadhipok Museum stands at a unique intersection in Bangkok, where a bridge, boulevards, roads, and canals converge. Opened in 2002, it offers a glimpse into the life of King Prajadhipok, the seventh King of the Chakri Dynasty.
Inside King Prajadhipok Museum Building (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
Behind the Open Doors
Step into the King Prajadhipok Museum and discover the life of Thailand's seventh Chakri Dynasty monarch. Explore personal collections and artefacts showcasing King Prajadhipok and Queen Rambhai Barni's legacy.
A set of the building photos in the past (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
Back in Time
The museum building is more than 111 years old. Originally built for a British department store, the building turned into a Thai department store (1926-1932), then was turned into an office of the Department of Public Works (1935-2001).
John Sampson Building Blueprint (1910-06-22) by Public Works Department, SiamKing Prajadhipok Museum
The Design
The museum's design adheres to the Neo-Classical principles of symmetry and balance. The symmetrical plan creates a sense of harmony and order, reflecting the era's aesthetic ideals.
The Design
The museum's dome creates a strong visual focal point, leading the eye from the Rachadamnoen Road and Phan Fa Bridge. It's a beautiful example of how architectural elements can enhance a building's perspective.
The Designer
Thai art historians believe Charles Béguelin, a Swiss architect who served the Siamese government from 1900 to 1933, designed the museum building. Béguelin's work often incorporated Neo-Classical elements.
From Department Store to Museum
The building was leased to John Sampson & Son Ltd., an English department store specializing in clothing and furniture. They were granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment, likely due to their role as suppliers for King Chulalongkorn's palace.
Interior of John Sampson & Son, Ltd. Department Store (1912-06-01/1925-04-14) by John Sampson & Son, Ltd.King Prajadhipok Museum
The Leading Department Store
The King's patronage likely played a significant role in John Sampson & Sons' success, granting them the prestigious opportunity to operate their department store in a new building.
Products sold in Suthadilok Department Store (Unknown) by UnknownKing Prajadhipok Museum
A Thai Department Store Takes Over
After the departure of John Sampson & Sons, the building transitioned to a Thai department store, Suthadilok, in 1932. Suthadilok's focus on home utilities and construction materials highlighted the shift in consumer needs in Bangkok.
King Prajadhipok Museum in the Past (Unknown) by UnknownKing Prajadhipok Museum
From Store to Government
In 1933, the building became the home of the Department of Public Works. For nearly 65 years, it was a familiar sight for Bangkok residents, signifying the city's development and growth.
Department of Public Works Building during the 200th Anniversary of Bangkok (1982) by unknownKing Prajadhipok Museum
The Department of Public Works
For over 50 years, the Department of Public Works building stood as a prominent landmark in Bangkok, witnessing the city's growth and serving as a backdrop for significant events, including the city's 200th anniversary celebration in 1982.
Becoming a Listed Heritage Building
With its historical and architectural values, the building was then listed by the Fine Arts Department as Thailand's heritage building in 1995.
Become King Prajadhipok Museum Building (Unknown) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
A New Home for History
In 1998, the Department of Public Works moved to a new location, leaving the building on Rama VI Road vacant. It was extensively renovated and transformed into the King Prajadhipok Museum, opening its doors in 2002.
King Prajadhipok Studies Center (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
The King Prajadhipok Studies Information Center
Located within the King Prajadhipok Museum, the Study Center provides academic services on topics related to King Prajadhipok and his reigning years. Materials such as rare books, manuscripts, photographs, books, and other publications are publicly accessible free of charge.
Democracy Learning Center (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
The Democracy Learning Centre
Situated along Lanluang Road, the Democracy Learning Center features interactive exhibitions on the foundation and principles of democracy and political history of Thailand.
Around the museum (2023) by King Prajadhipok MuseumKing Prajadhipok Museum
Around the museum
The King Prajadhipok Museum is located in Pra Nakorn, the old town of Bangkok, along with other historic landmarks.
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