Analysis of the King Rama IV’s design concept of Wat Pathumwanaram with architectural investigation techniques

Abstract

This research aims to search for analyzing the concept and motivation of King Rama IV in the design of Wat Pathumwanaram. The principle idea used in the design of Wat Pathumwanaram is the conception of the seven great places called Sattamahasathan. About the seven symbols represents the Sattamahasathan  in Wat Pathumwanaram; the first; Bodhipallanga is represented by the east gable of Phra Viharn, the second; Animissacetiya is represented by a standing buddha image outside the end of Phra Viharn, the third; Rattanacankamacetiya is represented by walking paths between Bodhikara and Animissacetiya, the fourth; Rattanagharacetiya is represented by Busabok of Phra Serm in Phra Viharn, the fifth; Ajapalanigrodha is represented by the base of Phra Saiya with radiate combined halo on the back, the sixth; Muccalinda is represented by the west gable of Phra Viharn and the seventh; Rajayatana is represented by the great stupa, respectively.