• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Google+
• Pin It

Gold and color dress this mighty elephant, his presence a national symbol of auspiciousness. Flowers of wondrous beauty adorn the revered chang elephant, complemented by two tiny lai thai motifs hanging on both sides. Traditional belief claims good things will come to Thailand as long as elephants tread its soil, and Khun Santiparp honors the majestic animal through their Benjarong art, reminiscent of ancient court d�cor. Benjarong takes its name from the Sanskrit words panch and rang, meaning "five colors" which frequently include red, yellow, white, green, and blue. It originated in China, and came to Thailand as part of the dowry of Chinese princesses. It soon found favor by Thai aristocrats and the wealthy by the during the Ming Dynasty, the Kings of Thailand ordered Benjarong from Chinese potters. Eventually, in the early during the reign of King Rama II, Thai artisans began producing Benjarong for the Royal Court with a slight variation, which they named lai nam thong gold washed design whereupon bright, liquid gold was used to outline the admirable patterns that would grace the Benjarong porcelain pieces. The popularity of Benjarong increased with the rise of a wealthy merchant and aristocratic elite, and eventually these wares became reasonably affordable. "First, I knead a mixture of kaolin [white clay mixed with feldspar and quartz] and bone ashes," Santiparp explains. "After hand-shaping the desired piece on the wheel, I let it dry completely before firing it for five to six hours at Then I glaze it with a mixture of burnt lime, wood ashes, and other secret natural materials of my own. This time I fire the piece at 1,280 �C, for twelve to thirteen and when totally cooled, I over-glaze the piece with gild and enamel painting. I draw the entire surface by hand, one color at a time. The shapes and motifs are gentle, graceful, and humbly crafted after Oriental styles. I fire the piece a third time in the kiln for five to six hours at to Nowadays I use modern electric kilns to fire a few pieces every day since the temperature can be controlled which in turn results in fewer misfires." Prior to the last firing, each piece is stamped with evidence of origin, featuring Santiparp's family logo. Clean with a damp, soft cloth. Do not use abrasive solutions. Benjarong porcelain is not dishwasher safe. Satisfaction Guaranteed -- Days for Returns