This old temple, formerly known as Wat Klang
Na because of its location amidst the paddy fields, was in
existence before Bangkkok. Rama I commissioned some monks
of Mon origins to reside at the temple. It was then call Wat
Tonpu. Prince Bowon Surasinghanat, the Viceroy in Rama I's
reign had it renovated entirely. After the Battle of the Nine
Armies when the Thai defeated the Burmese, the name was changed
to Wat Chana Songkhram to signify the Thai army's victory.
Notable artifacts in the temple are its interior decorative
structures. Prince Bowon Surasinghanat had craftmen under
his patronage see to its renovation. The gable is wood carving
depicting the god Vishnu (Narayana), surrounded by other
celestial beings, catching the garuda above the front portal.
The windbreaks above the gable are in the straight-line
naga motif with sloping edges, which was the Front Palace
's signature craftsmanship.
Another distinctive feature is the boundary stones of the
temple which are not located around the congregation hall
as normally practiced, but are placed high almost at the
eave-level on the external walls of the hall. |
