Stoneware Vase - 16 cm - Sawankhalok

Globular jar with two small handles
Sukhothai period, Thailand
Produced by the Sawankhalok kilns
14th – 15th century
Clay-bodied ware with a celadon glaze that is crazed
Height: 16 cm Diameter: 16 cm

An important globular stoneware jar with a stocky form, displaying perfect symmetry.
The rounded shoulder is accentuated by gentle concentric circular lines incised under the glaze, made during turning. It bears two small loop handles called ears, flanking a short, narrow neck that ends with a thick circular lip that flares slightly.

The piece is covered with a thick monochrome celadon glaze, of an olive gray-green hue that is particularly bright, entirely traversed by a dense network of fine natural crazing (shading). True to local firing techniques, the glaze ends neatly and sinuously just above the foot. The flat base and the bare foot expose a dense ceramic body that has browned to brick/latrite color under the effect of iron oxidation during firing.

This type of vessel, often described as a ginger jar or oil jar, is among the most emblematic and exported productions of the great ceramic centers of the Kingdom of Sukhothai (mainly the Sri Satchanalai / Sawankhalok kilns). Inspired by Chinese Longquan celadons, these stoneware pieces were used to store precious condiments, scented oils, medicines, or ritual substances. The presence of the small handles allowed a leather or hemp cord to pass through to seal the lid or to suspend the vessel.

Condition
Very good archaeological condition. Noted are small glaze skips/original glaze chips, a glaze flake on the side, cracks, and minor firing and usage flaws.

Provenance: Kanaka The Collection - Portugal

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