This gift of a replica of the Royal Thai Barge is one-tenth the size of the actual royal barge and was carved out of a single trunk of teakwood. Photogrammetric techniques for precise form and profile were used to ensure the right scale was kept between the original and the replica. The royal barge "Suphannahong" is known world-wide as a symbol of Thailand with both religious and royal meanings. The King of Thailand has made the "Suphannahong" twice, once in 1782 and then again in 1911. The royal barge is a display of both craftsmanship and traditional cultural Thai art.  
 
The ornamentation was handcrafted with intricate gilded carvings, lacquer glazed reflectors with gold leaf, and paint. The front of the barge leads with a graceful golden “hamsa,” or mythical swan. For ceremonial occasions the barge is fitted with multitiered "chatras" for rank, with either a "Busabok Banlang" (King’s spired throne) or a "Kanya Banlang" (venerated Buddha image). Here the barge consists of a full complement of 50 oarsmen, 2 steersmen, 2 officers, 1 ensign carrier, a chanter and a signaler and all armed with swords. 

The Prime Minster of Thailand, General Prem Tinsulanonda, presented the gift to the United Nations for whom Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar accepted the gift. Thailand’s Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Education undertook the creation of the replica and were financed by Bangkok bank.