Description
From Sukhothai or Sangkhalok (as named by the Chinese) this antique ceramic bowl is from the original kilns situated outside the wall of the ancient city.
The production of ceramics began in the 13th century AD, possibly with the decline of Khmer ceramics. During the 15th century China was faced with an important crisis, opening the opportunity for Sukhothai ceramics to conquer export markets. Sukhothai wares have been found in Indonesia, the Philippines and China among other countries and were a very important article of trade. In the middle of the 16th century, production at Sukhothai was discontinued, possibly related to the wars between the kingdom of Ayutthaya and the Burmese, and the resurgence of Chinese ceramics.
This is a lovely example of early Sukhothai ceramics and in excellent condition with no damage or repairs. The glaze has crazed and is worn off the rim and there is a lump of fired glaze on the undersurface. A lotus flower is surrounded by swirls and concentric circles.