Located on the opposite of the National Theatre on Chao-Fa Road is the National Gallery. It is converted from a royal mint built in the early 20th century during the reign of King Rama V. The century-old gallery is clearly influenced by western architecture with arch stained glass windows, ornamental marble floor and a gable roof adorning the building.
It was changed into a gallery in 1974 to showcase traditional Thai arts from the 17th century until present in various forms from paintings and sculptures to graphic art created by current local artists.
Many admirable collections of paintings grace the walls. The gallery's celebration room features priceless pieces of a water-color painting and an oil canvas painting created by King Rama VI and the current king - King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The senior Artists Room display modern artworks from the Thai pioneer artists such as Professor Silpa Bhirasri, Kien Yimsiri, Fua Haribitak, Misiem Yipinsoi and Sawadi Tantisook while the Contemporary Artists Room, which starts from 1967 until the present day, is represented by pieces from younger artists such as Chakabhan Posayakrit, Pratuang Emjarern and Nontiwat Chanthanapalin.
