Thai Niello/Bronze Decorative Serving Fork with Black Handle
Flatware - Serving Piece · Traditional Thai metalwork artisan, Thailand export manufacturer
Pattern: Traditional Thai Classical Dancer Motif
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece
Maker
Traditional Thai metalwork artisan, Thailand export manufacturer
Material
Siamese bronze / brass alloy with dark wood or horn handle inserts
Dimensions
Standard small serving fork or cocktail fork size, approximately 15 cm in length
Description
An exotic and decorative mid-century Thai export serving fork featuring a distinctive three-tined square-cut head, a tapered dark material handle section pinned securely, and a beautifully detailed figural terminal depicting a classical Thai dancer in traditional regalia above the stamped country of origin.
Key Features
Distinctive three-tined square fork profile, dark handle inserts with visible securing pins, and a cast Thai classical dancer terminal stamp.
Material & Composition
Siamese bronze / brass alloy with dark wood or horn handle inserts
Finish & Decoration
Polished metallic finish with repoussé and chased traditional Thai dancer figure, marked 'THAILAND'
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'THAILAND' on the terminal handle base
Construction Details
Multi-part construction with metal tines and neck, fitted dark handle scales secured by two pins, and a cast decorative bronze terminal
Functional Features
Short three-tined fork head designed for appetizers, fruit, or cold cuts
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered grip featuring dark wood or horn center panels attached with metal pins, leading to a sculpted figural metal terminal
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of machine-formed or cast structural elements with hand-finished chasing on the figural terminal and pinned handle assembly.
Authentication Indicators
Clear 'THAILAND' stamp, typical mid-century export brass/bronze alloy color, and traditional hand-chased figural motifs.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bangkok, Thailand, crafted for the international export and tourism market
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern export period, circa 1950s-1970s
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1950-1975
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war boom in Thai handicrafts and the global marketing of traditional iconography such as the classical Apsara or Thai dancer.
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition with minor surface wear, typical golden-bronze patina, and intact handle panels.
Value Estimate
Modest collector market value ranging from $15 to $45 USD depending on whether it is part of a larger matched set.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water, dry thoroughly immediately, and use a gentle brass or bronze cleaner only on metal portions while avoiding harsh abrasives on the dark handle insets.
Similar Pieces
Siamese nielloware flatware sets featuring silver and black enamel work depicting the God Kinnari.
Interesting Facts
Export tableware of this style became extremely popular among Western tourists and military personnel stationed in or visiting Southeast Asia following the Second World War.