Benjarong porcelain vase, 'Goldfish'

Leaping from a pond, a goldfish flips a tail, each exquisite scale glistening in the sun. Khun Santiparp crafts an extraordinary vase in the classic Benjarong style. 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. Santiparp kneads a mixture of kaolin and then shapes the piece. Once dry, it is fired for five to six hours at 800 degrees C and glazed with a mixture of burnt lime, wood ashes, and secret natural materials. The piece is fired again for twelve to thirteen hours at a temperature of 1, 280 degrees C. When the piece is totally cooled, Santiparp applies gild and enamel by hand, one color at a time. He fires the piece a third time for five to six hours at 700 to 800 degrees C in an electric kiln with electronically controlled temperatures. 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 use only.