The Rattanakosin Period of Arts
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After the destruction of Ayutthaya, Bangkok became the new capital in 1782, following Thon Buri located on the opposite bank of Chao Phraya River which held that position only for a short time.
The first kings of the Chakri Dynasty saw it as their main task to recreate the glamour and glory of Ayutthaya. They constructed palaces and temples according to the old plans and in the style of the old capital. They built a canal originating from the Chao Phraya river with an island in the middle. In accordance with the name of this island “Rattanakosin”, this period is also known as the “Bangkok style”.
Rama I |  |
Wat Phra Kaeo
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Wat Pho | 
Grand Palace |
| Impressive constructions such as Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are built on the island. Colorful mosaic decorations and overlapping glazed roof tiles are characteristic of this time. Over the intervening years, a modification of the Ayutthaya style regarding architecture, gradually took place because of Chinese and European influences. A part of the Grand Palace shows prominent examples of Italian renaissance architecture. Regarding statuary art, bronze and stone are increasingly replaced by more valuable materials such as gold and jade. For artistic works an even higher standard was applied. However, no newly created individual style had been developed. | 
Wat Arun |
