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Striking vintage Thai Benjarong portrait teapot/kettle featuring King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) of Siam (1853–1910).
The teapot is elaborately decorated with traditional multicolored Benjarong-style enameling in rich cobalt blue, red, green, yellow and white, with extensive hand-applied gold detailing. A portrait medallion depicts King Chulalongkorn in formal military/royal dress.
An especially attractive feature is the metal swing handle and metal-mounted fittings, giving the piece an unusual and substantial appearance.
The underside bears a hand-painted gold Thai inscription/signature. Comparable Rama V portrait Benjarong wares are known with reproductions of King Chulalongkorn's signature; however, the inscription on this example has not been independently translated or authenticated.
The ceramic displays extensive fine glaze crazing, including the interior, along with appropriate age-related wear, discoloration around contact areas, and some wear/loss to the gilding. The unglazed contact surfaces show additional age and use. Please examine all photographs carefully for condition.
Measurements: approximately 8" wide overall × 5¾" diameter × 4½" high.
Origin: Thailand / Siam
Style: Thai Benjarong
Subject: King Chulalongkorn (Rama V)
Estimated age: Early-to-mid 20th century, possibly circa 1940s–1950s
Maker: Unknown
A beautiful and uncommon piece of Thai royal portrait Benjarong, particularly appealing for collectors of antique and vintage Thai ceramics, Siamese decorative arts, and King Rama V memorabilia.
Please note: The attribution and approximate dating are based on comparison with documented examples and have not been independently authenticated.
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