Near Khlong Madua is Wat Ratsabamrung, also known as Wat Hong Kai. The temple is still in use; its old ubosot is abandoned and severely deteriorated. These two conditions refer to different parts of the site: continued use applies to the temple, while the deterioration applies to the old ubosot. This distinction is important when considering the temple art, because the details about the architecture and decoration refer specifically to the old building. Thus, the temple remains in use while the old ubosot is in a state of disrepair.
Wat Ratsabamrung: Architecture, Images, and Inscriptions
The stucco gable of the old ubosot depicts, among other things, two swans facing one another and two dragons facing one another. The design reflects royal taste during the reign of Rama III. The swans and dragons each form a pair; the attribution to the Rama III period also provides a stylistic reference. The gable detail therefore adds specific motifs to the picture of the old ubosot, rather than merely describing its abandoned and severely deteriorated condition.
There are ten Buddha images in total in the assembly pavilion at Wat Ratsabamrung. Most are classified as early Rattanakosin style. One image made of red sandstone, however, is stylistically attributed to the late Ayutthaya period. The collection thus brings together a predominant stylistic classification and a single image with a different material and stylistic attribution. The comparison is limited to the ten images and the characteristics mentioned.
The inscriptions also offer distinct points of interest. Two Buddha images have inscriptions on their bases giving the year 2475 BE. Another image has an inscription with characters resembling Khmer script, as well as the number 2440. Together with the stucco motifs and stylistic classifications, these details bring out different cultural themes: architectural ornament, artworks, and writing. The Buddha image “Luang Pho To” is also part of the temple’s history: it was moved from the old ubosot to the new ubosot.
Benjarong Ceramics in Don Kai Dee
Another cultural attraction in the area is the Benjarong ceramics village in Don Kai Dee. It is considered a learning center for this art and craft. This offers a distinct ceramics theme alongside temple architecture. If you are interested in both, it is easy to distinguish their respective focus: at Wat Ratsabamrung, the focus is on the ubosot, Buddha images, and inscriptions; in Don Kai Dee, it is Benjarong ceramics. Both add to the cultural perspective on the area around Khlong Madua without combining the themes into a single program.
Getting to Wat Ratsabamrung
The route described follows Setthakit 1 Road, also known as Highway 3091 (Samut Sakhon–Krathum Baen). Before Krathum Baen, turn left and continue for about one kilometer; the temple will then be on the right. The sequence of road, turn, and onward travel is useful for finding your way. Check the route locally, as directions may change.
Discover more destinations: Nong Song Hong, Ban Bo, Amphawa, Tha Sai, Suan Som, Tha Chin.
For the broader travel guide: Samut Sakhon.
