To commemorate the 125th anniversary of the birth of King Rama VII (King Prajadhipok) on Nov 8 this year, Boon Rawd Brewery Company has released the book Glorious King Prajadhipok, aimed at promoting awareness of the king's work and contributions to the country.
The Glorious King Prajadhipok And Singha Story Exhibition. Photos courtesy of Boon Rawd Brewery
From today until Jan 3, the company is also hosting the "Glorious King Prajadhipok And Singha Story Exhibition" at Lifestyle Hall, Floor 2, Siam Paragon, in order to promote the book and celebrate the 85th anniversary of the company's establishment.
The book is the result of comprehensive research on documents and old photos by Soravij Bhirombhakdi, director of Singha Museum Company. It depicts King Rama VII's life and nine-year reign in vivid detail, with particular focus on his good works and his role in helping Siam through various crises. The king followed in the footsteps of his father King Rama V by visiting many regions of the country in order to meet his subjects and help those in need. King Rama VII was the kingdom's last absolute ruler (1925--1935).
The exhibition presents stories of King Rama VII through Boon Rawd Brewery founder Phraya Bhirombhakdi's diaries as well as rare objects and photos relating to the monarch and Phraya Bhirombhakdi.
Highlights are the original photos of the king's coronation ceremony, his visit to the northern region and trips overseas, as well as the wet-plate collodion photos of the king's opening of the Memorial Bridge. The king provided much support for Phraya Bhirombhakdi, helping him establish the company. The photos of the coronation are special for being captured by a stereo camera and being viewable in 3D.
Also on view are the royal medals and cigarette box bestowed by King Rama VII upon Phraya Bhirombhakdi, menus and wine glasses used by the king, and the noble title documents and royal decorations presented by King Rama VI to Phraya Bhirombhakdi. Other exhibits are related to the brewery, such as its first beer bottle, beer glasses and giveaways during the company's early years. Visitors can also watch old movies and film footage of King Rama VII.
