The oldest of the principle royal barges is the Anekajatbhujonga Barge, built for King Rama V.

In state processions, the Anekajatbhujonga stands out as appearing quite plain in outline, as it does not have a figurehead, but a simple yet graceful prow.

Closer inspection, however, dispels this impression of simplicity. The barge is in fact covered with an intricate pattern of innumerable naga figures.

Thus, in contrast to the Subanahongsa, which is best seen from a distance, the Anekajatibhujonga is more impressive close up where it reveals itself as a true work of art by dedicated craftsmen who took great care over the perfection of every detail.

Second in rank to the Subanahongsa is the Anantanagaraj Barge, which is characterised by a seven-headed naga, the mythical serpent that is a symbol of water.

Like the other principal barges, the Anantanagaraj had a predecessor, in this case built in the reign of King Rama IV. The present barge was built by King Rama VI and launched on April 15, 1914.

For the Royal Kathin Ceremony to take place at the Temple of the Dawn tomorrow, the Anantanagaraj will be used to carry the presentation robes. It will also carry the procession chanter. (See story on back page.)

The Anantanagaraj is a testament to the power of the imagination. The seven-headed naga figurehead is an intricate sculpture enhanced with golden and coloured reflectors. The body of the serpent is equally marvellous, with its surface crafted to suggest a multitude of small serpents densely woven into floral-looking vines. The naga wears a garland and pendant around its neck, but a canon port in the bow indicates the barge's origins as a vessel of war.

The name Subanahongsa, or golden hamsa, refers to the swan-like mythical steed of the Hindu god Brahma which appeared in Thai lore during the Ayutthaya Period.

King Rama I ordered the Subanahongsa Barge to be built soon after his accession to the throne in 1782. The vessel was in constant use as the principal royal barge until it became too old to be repaired.

King Rama VI then commanded the construction of its successor, which was launched on November 13, 1911, and likewise named Subanahongsa.

In state processions, the vessel carries either a spired throne or a roofed pavilion surrounded by court officials.

The Subanahongsa Barge is made out of a single trunk of teak. It is said that the master craftsman threw away all his tools after its completion and vowed never to work again.

Whether this is true or not, the Subanahongsa is the most majestic of all the Royal Barges. Its hamsa figurehead is raised in flight with eyes bulging prominently, nostrils flared, and fangs protruding from its grimacing mouth.

The hamsa holds a crystal ball and tassel in its mouth and wears a garland and pendant around its neck. Its feathers, represented by gilded and mirrored ornamentation, appear to flow in the wind along the length of its body to its flame-like tail.

As the gilded paddles of the oarsmen flash in the sunlight in rhythm with their stylised rowing, their movement suggests that of gigantic wings creating the illusion that the hamsa is in flight through the air.

King Rama VI first rode in the Subanahongsa Barge on December 4, 1912 for the Royal Kathin Ceremony at the Temple of the Dawn, returning in the Anantanagaraj Barge.

The Subanahongsa was used for only the second time in 1932, during the reign of King Rama VII, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Bangkok. After that there is no record of the barge being used until His Majesty the King had it restored in 1952.