The larger Chinese Residence
It is assumed that the residence was built by H.M. the Second King, Phra Pinklao (while he was holding the title of H.R.H. Prince Krommaluang Issaresrangsan)
between 1824 and 1851, about the same time the smaller Chinese building was being repaired.
The structure is a Sino Thai Styled building constructed parallet to the smaller one to the north. Inside, doors and windows are Thai style, with the pedestals of
the windows on the western wall carved in the shape of hibiscus, and the lower portion in the shape of lion's paws. These designs indicate the royal status of the occupant.
Above each door are two carved panels, of which there is a square with old chinese letters with benedictor message in the front.
During the survey before the present remodelling, evidence was found of colored Chinese frescos painted on the gables all around the building. The desings had
deteriorated completely due to the passage of time and improper care. However, these designs have now been restored during the recent renovation.
Documentary evidence exists on the use of the larger building only after it was ceded to the Navy. From 1904 to 1992 the building was used by the Security Guard
Division of the Academy and Boatswain Storage. In 1970 was used by the Training Aids Division of the Naval Education Department. In 1995 in was used as barracks but
subsequent to the latest restoration it still has not been put to use.
|