Fine Details and Gold Application

In every respect, these covered bowls are royal treasures, likely ordered from China for the court of King Rama II (1809-1824) in the early Rattanakosin period. The masterful paint application and divine subject matter certainly show its intended royal owner. The excellence of Benjarong during King Rama II’s period was the result of Queen Sri Suriyendra’s direct patronization. The Benjarong produced in the period is considered the best of Benjarong wares, in particular the Lai Nam Thong which had reached its height in popularity and quality. Lai Nam Thong is a classification of gilded Benjarong ware. Gold patterns were harder to fire than other porcelains making it a tedious and expensive process.

Browse and bid on a rare and fine Benjarong Lai Nam Thong covered bowl painted with the Deities of the Four Elements (Lot 99) here