The Benjarong is Thailands priceless contribution to Asian pottery. Once the prized possession of royal palaces and upper-class Thais, it is today, the pride and perfection of ancient Thai craftsmanship.
But what exactly is the Benjarong and why does it possess such magical qualities with sheer beauty and serenity? Read on to unravel the history and making of this ancient masterpiece.
History of the Benjarong
During the early Ayutthaya period (1350 1767), Thai craftsmen made a somewhat crude multi-colored earthenware known today as the Benjarong a term based on the Sanskrit words panch, meaning five, and rang, meaning colors, thus literally referring to the five-colored. The style of painting multi-colored enamels on a white porcelain base was influenced by the Chinese Ming dynasty, and by the 17th century, the Benjarong became an exclusive household possession of rulers and high nobility marking a period where high quality Benjarongs with unique Thai designs were produced. Colored enamels added over the glaze were fused to the surface in a descending scale of temperatures. The Benjarongs were also decorated with swirling flame-like motifs and...