Benjarong porcelain jar, 'Flower Art'

Breathtaking gold accents mysterious black flowers that dance across the contours of this delicate, white porcelain Benjarong jar and pedestal by Khun Santiparp. Benjarong takes its name from the Sanskrit words panch and rang, which means "five colors." It refers to the traditional style of hand-painted Thai porcelain. Red, yellow, white, green, and blue are the most frequently used colors; however, some pieces contain as many as eight colors. In the 1300s, during the Ming Dynasty, the Kings of Thailand ordered Benjarong from Chinese potters. But in the early 1800s, during the reign of King Rama II, Thai artisans began producing Benjarong for the Royal Court with a slight variation, which they named Lai Nam Thong, or "gold washed design." This technique requires outlining the decoration with bright, liquid gold. The popularity of Benjarong increased with the rise of a wealthy merchant and aristocratic elite, although these wares later became reasonably affordable. Khun Santiparp describes his creative process: "Firstly, I knead a mixture of kaolin [white clay mixed with feldspar and quartz] and 40% bone ashes. After having thrown it on the wheel and formed it, I let it fully dry and fire it for five to six hours. After that, I glaze it with a mixture of burnt lime, wood ashes, and secret natural materials of my own. The piece is then fired again in the kiln. When totally cooled, I over-glaze the piece with gild and enamel painting. I draw the entire surface by hand, one color at a time. The shapes and motifs are gentle, graceful, and humbly crafted after Oriental styles." Care instructions: These pieces will shine forever and require only a damp cloth to wipe away dust. Benjarong is not dishwasher safe. If cleaning is needed, use a gentle dish soap and soft sponge. Never use abrasive pads or scouring agents. For decorative purposes only.