Bangkok The Temple of Dawn – an Exquisite Piece of Fine Art

At dawn, the Temple of Dawn makes as beautiful a reflection on the surface of the Chao Phraya River as it does at dusk. Its artistic aesthetics has for centuries fascinated foreigners and Thai nationals alike.

Wat Aroon Ratcha-Warararm is a Class-One Royal Temple built since the days of ancient Ayudhya. Since its initial restoration took place under the reign of King Rama II, it has always been regarded as King Rama II’s temple. However, following the completion of the restoration, the former “Wat Makok” was renamed “Wat Chaeng”. More restorations followed during the reign of King Rama III who renamed it again as Wat Aroon, the name it is known today.

Of the temple, the Pagoda of Wat Aroon is definitely the most striking feature.

Built of bricks and mortar, it is ornate with color-glazed tiles with floral and leaf motifs, among others. Each tiny piece of tile was carefully put together to result in an exceptional piece of art. However, the tiles used in the decoration vary greatly, from the commonly glazed to those with enmeshed shells. Others are ancient china bowls with exquisite rare designs like those found on bencharong bowls. These bowls, in fact, make part of the orderly decorative patterns that render the temple resplendent in the sun.

Besides the main pagoda, Wat Aroon boasts other places of historic importance and invaluable antiques amongst which are the Mondhop, alternately known as Prasart Thid, the assembly hall, the chapel and the small assembly hall in front of the pagoda. Together, they constitute Siam’s invaluable heritage that deserves conservation efforts for the benefit of future generations.

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