Thai Sawankhalok Brown Glazed Stoneware Vase

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

This elegant stoneware vase, dating back to the Sukhothai Kingdom period (1238–1438), features a compressed, rounded body supported by a ring-form foot, exuding a refined yet functional aesthetic. The exterior is adorned with a luxurious dark mocha iron glaze, which flows seamlessly over the vessel’s surface, leaving the rim, base, and foot unglazed to highlight the natural clay beneath. The base bears a dotted stamp in relief, a distinctive mark of craftsmanship.

Sawankhalok ceramics, also referred to as Sangkhalok, represent the pinnacle of traditional Thai ceramic artistry from the 14th century. Originating in the Si Satchanalai region, one of the most prolific ceramic production centers in Southeast Asia, these wares are characterized by their coarser clay, enriched with natural iron inclusions that occasionally appear as black, red, or silvery specks. While Sawankhalok potters specialized in crafting practical forms—jars, kendis, bowls, and plates—their mastery of glazes, including celadon green, yellow, and deep brown, elevated these items to objects of aesthetic and cultural significance. This particular vase’s sleek form and deep mocha glaze make it a timeless example of their artistry.

The kilns of Si Satchanalai, located along the Yom River, produced ceramics for both local use and international trade. These wares were widely exported to Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan, and the Middle East, gaining prominence when the Ming Dynasty’s export ban (1371–1509) on Chinese ceramics created a surge in demand for Southeast Asian alternatives.

This vase stands as a testament to the global reach and enduring craftsmanship of Thai ceramics, offering insight into the creative and economic achievements of the Sukhothai Kingdom.

Excellent condition. Age-related light wear. Glazing defects, fritting and firing flaws. Beautiful crackled glazing. Lovely patina. Size approx. 8,5cm x 12,5cm x 12,5cm. 

Provenance: British private collection with lead sealed Thai export tags as shown.

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.