This is a lovely Antique Ceramic / Stoneware Covered Box from Thailand that historically has been called Sawankhalok or Sangkhalok Ware.  This well-studied category of Ceramics was produced in the kilns of North-Central Thailand during the 14th and 15th Centuries. It was considered a Trade Ceramic since it was exported to many parts of Southeast Asia during the height of its popularity.  The term Sawankhalok is actually from a name of the town that still exists in Si Satchanalai Province close to another center of the Thai ceramic tradition called Sukhothai.  Due to internal strife taking place in China during a 60 year period of the 16th Century, China's export of porcelain was essentially halted. Thai Ceramics for a relatively short period of time filled in the supply gap and was exported throughout Southeast Asia. The pieces are made from a high iron content clay & have a wonderful rustic texture & visual quality to them. This particular example has one of the characteristic Mangosteen Fruit stems.

My father specialized in collecting Sawankhalok / Sangkhalok Ceramics for over 40 years and the quality of his handpicked pieces are comparable to any similar high quality pieces available on the open market. He only purchased his Ceramics primarily from two reputable / well regarded Antique Dealers in Bangkok in the mid-1970's - Anna's Antiques and Peng Seng.  Both Dealers were located in the Bangrak district of Bangkok close to the Oriental Hotel and River City Bangkok, the current location of the RCB Auction House

Please review all pictures thoroughly prior to making an offer or purchase.  

Condition Description: Listed below are the condition issues of this lovely lidded box - please be aware of this item's age:  Top Piece: White Chip on the Ornamental ridged top & possible chip repair on the flat bottom of the top piece.  Bottom Piece: Open 1 1/8 inch open gap on the inner rim, 1 inch inside crack & a number of small chip on the top of the inside rim. When lid is on the box there is no visible evidence of the inside crack!

Covered Box Dimensions: 3 inches High & 3 3/4 inches in Diameter.  Weight: 9.6 ounces

Returns accepted if not completely satisfied with the item within 30 days.

U.S. Residents are required to pay Sales Tax upon purchase based on the requirements of their Local Taxing Jurisdiction.

ATTENTION INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS / PURCHASERS: this auction / sale is for Buyers in certain countries only.  If you are an international bidder and want to bid / buy, contact me prior to bidding / purchasing to obtain individual permission.  This may be granted after you accept the shipping costs quoted to you.

PROVENANCE: Collection of Mr. Don T. Christensen, Penang, Malaysia