Late queen leaves legacy of art preservation

HM's tireless efforts to promote Thai craftsmanship can be seen at the Museum of Textiles, writes Jutamas Tadthiemrom

- Jutamas Tadthiemrom

As Thais mourn the beloved Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who passed away on Oct 24, many are also reflecting on her enduring legacy in preserving Thai arts and culture, especially her tireless efforts to promote traditional textiles and rural craftsmanship.

To honour Her Majesty's lifelong dedication to empowering village artisans and safeguarding ancient weaving traditions, the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles is offering free admission throughout the mourning period.

Located in the Ratsadakorn-Bhib-hathana Building beside the Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion, where the public is invited to sign the condolence book for Her Majesty in the Grand Palace compound, the museum showcases extensive collections that illuminate her vision of elevating Thai textiles to global prominence.

The museum's four main galleries showcase treasured royal garments and ceremonial textiles worn by Her Majesty, including outfits from the coronation ceremonies of His Majesty King Rama IX and His Majesty King Rama X.

The exhibitions trace the evolution of her elegant style, from the tailored ensembles of her 1960s state visits to Europe and the United States to her refined attire in later decades.