Thai Goddess Mekkala Pattern Nickel Silver (Bronzeware) Flatware Handle
Flatware (Likely a Dessert Spoon or Serving Piece) · Unknown Thai Workshop; common brands for this style include Siamese Bronze Co. or Thai After Five. These workshops proliferated in Bangkok following WWII to serve the export market.
Pattern: Mekkala (Goddess of Lightning) Pattern, also colloquially known as the 'Thai Buddha' or 'Ramayana' pattern. Produced mid-20th century to present.
Type
Flatware (Likely a Dessert Spoon or Serving Piece)
Maker
Unknown Thai Workshop; common brands for this style include Siamese Bronze Co. or Thai After Five. These workshops proliferated in Bangkok following WWII to serve the export market.
Material
Nickel Silver (Non-precious alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) or Polished Bronze. The yellowish tint and greenish verdigris oxidation suggest a high copper content (bronze) rather than sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated handle width 1.5 - 2 cm; typical length for this type of flatware is 15-20 cm. Weight is typically lighter than solid sterling silver but heavier than modern stainless steel.
Description
A classic example of Thai Bronzeware, this piece features the iconic Goddess Mekkala embossed on the handle. Rendered in a golden-toned alloy, it represents the fusion of traditional Thai mythological art with Western-style flatware forms, designed primarily for the mid-century export market.
Key Features
Depiction of the Goddess Mekkala, golden-yellow hue of the alloy, 'Siam' style iconography, and the presence of characteristic green copper-carbonate oxidation in crevices.
Material & Composition
Nickel Silver (Non-precious alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) or Polished Bronze. The yellowish tint and greenish verdigris oxidation suggest a high copper content (bronze) rather than sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Polished golden finish with relief casting. Features the Goddess Mekkala in a traditional headdress with a floral lotus motif and a beaded border. The recessed areas show significant oxidation (verdigris).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'Siam' or 'Thailand' on the reverse; may also be marked 'Nickel Bronze'. No sterling silver hallmarks (like .925 or a Lion Passant) are visible or expected for this specific manufacture.
Construction Details
Cast construction. The handle is likely cast in one piece with the stem, or joined to a functional end. Evidence of mold lines and mass-production casting techniques rather than hand-forging.
Functional Features
Tapered handle for grip; the flat surface provides a canvas for the religious/mythological iconography common in Southeast Asian export ware.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid cast metal handle. The silhouette is spatulate with a rounded end. The grip shows wear consistent with frequent handling and lack of specialized polishing.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade casting. While the design is intricate, the execution shows the limitations of production foundries with some blurring of fine details and visible pitting in the metal surface.
Authentication Indicators
The color is the primary indicator; it lacks the white-cool luster of .925 sterling. The 'Siam' style casting and oxidation patterns are consistent with authentic Thai Bronzeware of the 1960s.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bangkok, Thailand (formerly Siam). Manufactured in local foundries specializing in bronze and nickel alloys for the global souvenir and dining market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Export Era (1950s–1970s). This style became immensely popular with Western tourists and military personnel stationed in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975. The specific style of casting and the degree of oxidation suggest a vintage mid-20th-century origin.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Siam to Thailand' transition period for the export economy. While not high jewelry, these sets were essential status symbols for American and European households in the 60s and 70s seeking 'exotic' tablescapes.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish and verdigris (green corrosion) in the recessed areas. Surface scratches and spotting present. Requires specialized cleaning to restore the golden luster.
Value Estimate
$2 - $10 USD per individual piece. Full sets (144 pieces in a wood chest) typically range from $150 - $400 depending on condition and completeness.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mixture of lemon juice and salt or a dedicated bronze/brass cleaner. Avoid silver 'dips' which can damage the alloy. Dry thoroughly to prevent further verdigris. Do not clean in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with gold-plated silver (Vermeil), but distinguished by the base metal's yellow-brown hue and the specific Thai motifs. Modern stainless steel versions exist but lack the depth of this older casting.
Interesting Facts
Mekkala is the Goddess of Lightning in Thai mythology. According to legend, the flash of her jewel creates lightning, while the demon Ramasoon’s axe creates thunder while chasing her.