NATI0NAL GALLERY
With increasing trade with the West resulting in a shortage of traditional bullet coins, King Rama IV ordered the purchase of machinery to mint coins which was installed at the Royal Mint in the Grand Palace. This was replaced in the reign of King Rama V who ordered the construction of an entirely new building for the Royal Mint, which carried on producing coins until its machinery wore out and the Mint moved to Vibhavadi Rangsit Road.
Department of Fine Arts then requested its use from the Royal Mint to create the National Gallery in 1974.
The Structure: It contains elements of both Thai and Western architecture and is a "typical building from the reign of King Rama V"

Permanent Exhibitions: These include collections of modern art by famous Thai artists both past and present, and includes works by both King Rama VI and His Majesty the present King, traditional murals and all categories of modern art from the first days to the present.

Temporary Exhibitions: Thai and foreign artists arrange revolving exhibitions alternating with annual exhibitions, where the work on display goes through selection, and includes painting, 'sculpture, prints and installations.
There are also a library and a souvenir shop selling books and postcards. Interested people can listen to lectures, training and seminars about artistic activities arranged by the National Gallery.

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