Going for gold

23 Sept 07:38 Key points summarised by AI

The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum in Ayutthaya, Thailand, has opened a new Gold Treasure Exhibition Building, showcasing 2,244 exquisite 15th-century gold artifacts that highlight the immense wealth and artistic sophistication of the former Siamese capital.
This significant collection originated from secret chambers within Wat Ratchaburana, initially concealed by King Borommarachathirat II as a "time capsule" of Buddhist heritage, which was later discovered and partially looted in 1956.
Following the infamous looting, King Bhumibol Adulyadej advocated for a local museum, leading to the establishment of the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum in 1959 to house the recovered treasures, including royal regalia like the golden Sword of Victory.
The exhibition is thoughtfully organized into three sections, guiding visitors through royal gold collections, religious and ritualistic gold figures, and sacred relics, offering a profound insight into Ayutthaya's prosperity and spiritual life.

Bright at Midnight: Conceptual echoes of Bas Jan Ader Arrive in Bangkok

Today 15:13 Key points summarised by AI

"Bright at Midnight" marks the first institutional exhibition in Asia of Dutch conceptual artist Bas Jan Ader, showcasing his enigmatic work at Bangkok Kunsthalle until January 10, 2027.
The exhibition delves into Ader's legacy, exploring themes of vulnerability and the ephemeral, made more poignant by his 1975 disappearance at sea during an art project.
It encourages viewers to engage with art beyond its material form, featuring key pieces like "Thoughts unsaid, Then forgotten," "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks," and the haunting film "Launch of the Ocean Wave."
A highlight is the planned live transformation of "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks" in 2026, where ropes will be cut, creating a new layer of art from the destructive impact.
The exhibition challenges conventional art consumption, advocating for a deeper appreciation of conceptual and research-driven artistic practices over mere fascination with art as an asset class.