Thai Sawankhalok Brown Glazed Stoneware Vase

Sukhothai Kingdom Period, c. 1300–1400 AD, Sukhothai Province, Si Satchanalai, Thailand

This elegant stoneware vase, dating to the Sukhothai Kingdom period (1238–1438), embodies the refined simplicity characteristic of Sawankhalok ceramics. Its plump, rounded body, paired with a short, upright neck and a ring-form foot, creates a harmonious and balanced design. The vase is coated in a rich dark mocha iron glaze that flows gracefully over the vessel, leaving the rim, base, and foot unglazed to showcase the natural clay beneath.

The Sawankhalok ceramic tradition, also known as Sangkhalok, emerged from the Si Satchanalai region, which served as a major production hub for ceramics in Southeast Asia during the 14th century. The local clay, distinguished by its coarser texture and iron inclusions, contributed to the unique appearance of these wares, with occasional black, brown, red, or silvery specks adding a natural aesthetic.

While Sawankhalok ceramics often featured functional forms such as jars, kendis, bowls, and plates, the application of decorative glazes—including celadon green, yellow, black, and this deep brown—elevated their artistry. This vase’s minimalist design and luxurious glaze would have made it both a practical household item and a cherished decorative piece.

Ceramic production in Si Satchanalai was deeply connected to the region’s robust international trade networks. Wares from this region were exported widely to Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan, and the Middle East, where they were highly sought after. The Ming Dynasty’s export ban (1371–1509) on Chinese ceramics further increased demand for Thai and Vietnamese wares, cementing their importance in global commerce.

Good condition. Age-related wear. Glazing defects and loss. Flaking and fritting. Firing flaws. Beautiful patina. Size approx. 8,5cm x 8,5cm x 6,0cm. 

Provenance: Swedish private collection 

References and further reading:

Thai ceramics, National Museums Scotland.

The ceramics of southeast Asia: Thei dating and identification (2nd ed.), R.M. Brown, Singapore, Singapore: Oxford Univesity Press, 1988.

Last shipments from the Thai Sawankhalok Kilns, R.M. Brown, Art from Thailand, pp. 93-103. Mumbai, Marg Publications, 1999.

A Field Guide to Glazed Thai Ceramics, Dawn F. Rooney, Asian Perspectives, Vol 28. No 2, pp. 125-144, University of Hawai'i Press, 1988-89.