Vase - Stoneware - Sawankhalok

Globular jar with two small handles
Sukhothai period, Thailand
Production of the Sawankhalok kilns
14th – 15th century
Clay-bodied stoneware with crackled celadon glaze
Height: 16 cm Diameter: 16 cm

Important globular, squat stoneware jar with perfect symmetry.
The rounded shoulder is emphasized by faint concentric circular lines incised under the glaze, made during throwing. It bears two small loop handles, called ears, flanking a short, tightened neck that ends in a thick, circular lip that flares slightly.

The piece is covered with a thick monochrome celadon-type glaze, a pale olive-green gray hue that is particularly bright, entirely traversed by a dense network of fine natural craquelure (tressage). Faithful to local firing techniques, the glaze stops neatly and sinuously just above the foot. The flat base and the unglazed foot expose a dense ceramic paste that has turned brick-red (brick/latrite color) under iron oxidation during firing.

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

Condition
Very good archaeological conservation state. Small original glaze skips, a chipped break on the lateral side, cracks and minor firing/use defects are noted.

Provenance: Kanaka The Collection - Portugal

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