JAR, Sawankhalok Ware, opaque white-glazed, with underglaze iron brown lotus petal design, Middle Ages (12th–16th centuries)

Ceramics produced at the ancient kiln site of Sawankhalok in Thailand from the 14th century onwards were imported to Japan during the Momoyama period through the early Edo period. Known as Songkoroku, these pieces were highly valued by tea masters of the time for their suitability as tea utensils. The Songkoroku often emulated the celadon and blue-and-white wares of the Longquan kiln from the Song and Yuan dynasties in China, predominantly featuring a semi-porcelain body adorned with ash-glazed celadon, iron decoration, and white slip. This particular piece showcases an opaque white glaze embellished with a brown underglaze lotus petal design. Although it is an excavated item, it exhibits vibrant coloration with minimal wear. Please note that there is a restoration on the body. Refer to the accompanying photographs for further details.