Benjarong: Behind the Craft

Benjarong: Behind the Craft

Aug 07 , 2023

The origins of Benjarong trace back to the Ming Dynasty in China, 1368-1644 A.D. About 600 years ago, a princess from China married into the Siam Royal Family and she brought the Benjarong with her. For 500 years, Benjarong was then created exclusively for the Royal Family of Siam (now Thailand).

Benjarong meaning five colours, usually has five or more colours and up to fourteen. Each piece is created in small studios by Thai artisans who have handed down their skills through many generations. The process is painstakingly slow and has not changed for over 400 years. The fine porcelain is first drawn out in great detail by the artist and is then hand painted. It is kiln fired after each colour is applied, then hand adorned with 18 carat gold or platinum and signed by the artist. Every piece is truly one of a kind