Thai Sawankhalok Celadon Glazed Miniature Hamsa Ritual Ewer (Kendi)

Sukhothai Kingdom or Ayutthaya Period, c. 1300–1400 AD, Sukhothai Province, Si Satchanalai, Pa Yang Kilns, Thailand

This extraordinary miniature kendi, fashioned in the form of a hamsa (sacred goose), exemplifies the elegance and innovation of Sawankhalok ceramics. The piece features a gracefully curved tail handle, a bird-shaped spout, and an elongated cylindrical neck with a wide flared rim. Its design sits atop a discoid foot, all coated in a translucent cream-white to pale-green celadon glaze.

The term kendi originates from the Sanskrit word "kundika", denoting a ritual water vessel. Historically, these vessels were integral to Hindu-Buddhist practices, where they were used for ceremonial pouring and drinking. Depictions of kendis on temple reliefs dating back to the 9th century CE indicate their long-standing use in Southeast Asia, spanning over a millennium. This tradition extended to locally crafted earthenware kendis as well as imported glazed varieties from regions such as China, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, demonstrating a rich history of international trade and cultural exchange. While kendis were primarily functional, they also held symbolic and ceremonial significance. Miniature versions like this piece may have served as medicine containers, children’s toys, or offerings in religious rituals. In some cases, kendis were adapted for tobacco smoking, as seen in the West Asian water-pipe tradition that influenced the region. 

The goose motif adds another layer of cultural depth. In Hindu mythology, the hamsa is the vahana (vehicle) of Brahma, the god of creation. This association made the goose an enduring symbol of wisdom, purity, and transcendence. Variations of the goose-shaped kendi were crafted in monochrome celadon, white, and underglaze-painted brown or black, showcasing the artistic diversity of Sawankhalok ceramics. This exquisite piece, likely from the Pa Yang kilns, represents the pinnacle of Thai ceramic artistry during the 14th century, a period when Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai were at the forefront of Southeast Asia's ceramic production. Its elegant form and intricate symbolism make it a remarkable artifact of historical and cultural significance.

Excellent condition. Wear commensurate with age and use. Glazing defects and firing flaws. Kiln grits. Beautiful patina. Size approx. 9,7cm x 10,2cm x 7,4cm. 

Provenance: British private collection 

For a similar examples see:

Kendi, Asian Civilisations Museum, Accession Number: C-0971 (https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1097913)

Kendi in the Form of a Hamsa (Gander), The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number:1989.238.53 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/37511)

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.