Sawankhalok Stoneware Figure - 35 mm

A rare and exquisite figure in ferruginous glaze from Sawankhalok representing six ducks
14th-15th century AD, Sukhothai region, Thailand
Dimensions: H 3.5 × L 5.8 × P 5.8 cm

It presents a vivid portrayal of waterfowl gathered. The composition is striking for its arrangement: a duck rises at the center, serving as the focal point, while five others surround it, their bodies leaning inward in a protective, almost reverent posture. This central and peripheral arrangement reflects both the natural social behavior of ducks and the artistic conventions of Southeast Asia in terms of hierarchy and protection.

The ferruginous glaze, speckled with golden and dark patches, flows over the rounded forms, imitating the shine of the feathers and animating the surface with organic textures. The central duck is slightly higher, underscoring its dominance, while the other ducks are arranged in being offset around the base, creating a rhythmic and harmonious circular motion. The group evokes an impression of unity, protection and abundance, themes resonant with the broader symbolism of Thai popular beliefs and Buddhist culture.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Sawankhalok kilns reached their peak, producing not only fine ceramics destined for export but also small animal and human figures. This intimate composition of six ducks could have served as a domestic talisman, a ritual object, or a votive offering, capturing the delicate balance between realism and stylization that characterizes Sukhothai-period craftsmanship. Despite its modest size, the figure embodies the potters’ ingenuity in transforming natural creatures into ceramic forms charged with symbolic meaning, constituting a rare survivor of medieval Thai ceramic art.

An example similar in the collection of the National Museum of Asian Art, Washington DC, acquisition number FSC-P-402.

Provenance:
Portland Art Museum, Portland, acquisition number ST1997.14.18, IND 3003 ($25), acquired March 31, 1966.
Obtained from a well-known US auction house.

A label is attached to this piece from the Portland Museum of Art, bearing descriptions and acquisition numbers. The documentation of the Portland Museum of Art, containing records of the original collection, exhibitions, etc., will be provided with a copy of the photographs to your email address.
Exhibition
Ancient East Asian Art Exhibition, Asian, from February 3 to 22, 1966, Meier & Frank Auditorium, Portland.

Condition:
One of the ducks is broken and missing. There is also a flake measuring about 1.5 x 0.8 cm at the base. Otherwise, the figure shows the expected surface wear and small losses consistent with age and burial, notably glaze abrasion and small firing imperfections, but no other significant deterioration or restoration observed.