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Published on January 12, 2008

The recommendations were made to the Culture Ministry by her niece HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn after seeing an exhibition of traditional craftsmanship at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre on Thursday morning.

Culture Minister Khunying Khaisri Sri-aroon has already assigned Avudh Ngernchuklin, who chairs a panel in charge of designing the royal pyre, to respond to the princess' initiatives.

HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, 84, was the elder sister of His Majesty the King. Her death has plunged the country into mourning.

Avudh said craftsmen usually sculpted legendary animals from their imagination, mixing features of various animals together. "We have yet to decide which animals will be used on the royal pyre. Further studies will be conducted," he said.

Avudh, who is a former director general of the Fine Arts Department, said Princess Sirindhorn had also recommended the use of wrinkled gold leaf on the pyre.

According to Avudh, good-quality wrinkled gold leaf is very rare in Thailand and is usually imported from China.

Construction of the pyre is expected to start at Sanam Luang next month.

The Nation