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Monday, October 09, 2017, 16:42
Thai artisans prepare complex for king's funeral
By Associated Press
Monday, October 09, 2017, 16:42 By Associated Press

BANGKOK — Thai artists and craftsmen are putting the finishing touches on an elaborate crematorium complex ahead of the funeral of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned for 70 years before his death on Oct. 13, 2016.

The crematorium, situated on a public field near the Grand Palace in Bangkok, is a representation of mystical Mount Meru, where gods reside, according to Buddhist and Hindu legends. The complex features nine golden-spired pavilions and more than 100 sculptures and statues of angels, gods, mythical creatures and former kings.

Bhumibol will be honored in an elaborate royal cremation ceremony from Oct. 25 to 29. The events, which have a budget of 1 billion baht (US$30 million), are the culmination of more than a year of official mourning.

The crematorium will be dismantled after the funeral.

This Sept 25, 2017, photo, shows the royal crematorium and funeral complex for the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej as preparations continue in Bangkok, Thailand. (PHOTO / SAKCHAI LALIT / AP)

This Oct 6, 2017, photo, shows the royal crematorium and funeral complex for the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej as preparations continue in Bangkok, Thailand. (PHOTO / SAKCHAI LALIT / AP)

In this Sept 4, 2017, photo, an artist sculpts deities and creatures from ancient epics to decorate the royal crematorium and funeral complex for the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej as preparations continue in Bangkok, Thailand. (PHOTO / SAKCHAI LALIT / AP)

In this Sept 8, 2017, photo, the royal chariot which will be used to carry the body and the royal urn of the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is displayed at the National Museum as preparations continue in Bangkok, Thailand. (PHOTO / SAKCHAI LALIT / AP)

In this Sept 8, 2017, photo, artists sculpt deities and creatures from ancient epics to decorate the royal crematorium and funeral complex for the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Bangkok, Thailand. (PHOTO / SAKCHAI LALIT / AP)


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