BEHIND THE CRAFT
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Benjarong: Behind the Craft

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

FGBJ10222CKBP

Benjarong Mug M2 Chakri Pattern

£335.00
The East India Company's Benjarong mug range is hand crafted by the finest artisans, using techniques that are centuries old and hand-painted to an intricate pattern of your choice. All Benjarong products are authenticated with the artist's signature.

The East India Company - Lifestyle

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£305.00
SPECIFICATION DELIVERY & RETURNS
Product Detail Specification
The production process is only known to a handful of families in Thailand that who have passed it down to through generations spanning many centuries.

The intricacies of how it is made, the colour mixing, application of paints and patterns, are a well-kept secret.

The information you can find on our product pages, are as much as we are allowed to reveal.
Drawing: it begins with circular guide lines on the bone China or Thai porcelain on a turning wheel which is turned by the artist's hand.

Painting: Benjarong was traditionally painted from rim to base in symmetrical patterns. Although Benjarong means 5 colours, up to 14 colours are now used to improve variety in the patterns using paint made from mineral colours.

Quality Control: Only the strictest quality control procedures are employed and the slightest mistake will lead to rejection. Perfection is paramount for this range.
Materials: Fine Bone China & 18 Karat Gold
Volume: 0.36l
Weight: 0.240 kg
Length: 12 cm
Width: 9 cm
Height: 10 cm
Country of Origin: Thailand

Certification of Authenticity: Included with every purchase
Benjarong is fragile, much like all ceramics, so it's important to handle it with care to ensure its longevity.

- Benjarong pieces often incorporate metallic gold paint and should therefore never be placed in a microwave ovenor have prolonged direct exposure to sunlight.
- Ensure that your Benjarong pieces do not come into contact with hard surfaces. We recommend stacking plates with tissue separators between them. Avoid sliding plates over each other.
- Hand wash Benjarong like bone china; use a plastic basin to cushion against metal sinks.
- Never use abrasive pads, cleaners, or scouring agents.
- Avoid letting your Benjarong sit in the sink or basin for extended periods.
- Wash Benjarong separately from other dinnerware items, such as cutlery or silver items.
- To warm your Benjarong tableware in an oven, place it in a cold oven and gradually heat it up to 100 degrees Celsius or, in a gas oven, to gas mark "one quarter." Alternatively, you can warm your Benjarong using a hostess trolley or a plate warmer.

Stories

The History of Chakri & Benjarong

Chakri symbolises the original daisy floral design dating back to China. The Thai adaption with stronger colours became popular during the reign of King Rama V and received royal permission to be used with the Chakri dynasty name.

The rounded petals in white surround the round pollen area in red. The flowers appear to float, surrounded by the background and leaves. The leaves are given a delicacy of appearing to be in motion, blown by the wind.
King Rama V was known for paving Siam's road away from colonisation and towards prosperous modernisation. For example, he abolished slavery and ensured sustainble education systems were in place. Whilst in power, he ensured the traditions of Siam were preserved as much as possible and he even promoted the use of high quality artisan products as he didn't want this to be forgotten.

This mass transition exhibited during pre-modern times can be regarded as unique thanks to King Rama V and The East India Company's Benjarong Collection aims to capture that never-to-be-forgotten story.

Our spirit delivers no ordinary products

  • FAQ

    How do I clean my Benjarong products?
    - Do not wash with any silver because any rust from the silver could cause a grey mark on a piece of Benjarong dinnerware item. - To clean a Benjarong dinnerware items, it is advisable to hand wash only as you would with any other bone china.
    - Use a plastic basin as a cushion against a hard metal sink.
    - Never use abrasive pads, cleaners or scouring agents.
    - Don't let your Benjarong sit in the sink or basin for a long period of time.
    - Wash separately from other dinnerware e.g. cutlery.

    How do I know if it's authentic?
    A Certification of Authenticity is included with every purchase.

  • Delivery & Returns

    UK Standard Delivery: £3.95
    UK Next Day Delivery (mainland UK only): £9.95 (Order before 12pm)
    International Delivery is available, please see our delivery page for details. For more information and Terms & Conditions, please see our Delivery page.

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