Thai Repoussé Silver Offering Bowl (Khan Nam Pan)
Hollowware (Bowl) · Traditional Thai Silversmith (unidentified artisan mark), Chiang Mai/Bangkok region
Pattern: Traditional Lotus and Guardian Motif, typical of Thai high-purity silver traditions
Type
Hollowware (Bowl)
Maker
Traditional Thai Silversmith (unidentified artisan mark), Chiang Mai/Bangkok region
Material
High-purity Silver (likely .900 to .925 purity) as indicated by the '90 GRAM' weight stamp; solid metal construction
Dimensions
Approximately 8-10 cm in diameter; weight is clearly marked as 90 grams (approximately 2.89 Troy oz)
Description
An exquisite example of Thai silvercraft, this bowl features a dense band of repoussé decoration around the rim, characteristic of the Chiang Mai style. The base is left plain to showcase the hand-hammering and to accommodate the maker's stamps. These bowls were traditionally used in Buddhist ceremonies or to hold scented water during Songkran.
Key Features
Visible hand-hammering on the interior/base; weight-specific stamp (90 GRAM); high-purity Thai floral scrollwork; soft 'white' luster typical of high-purity Asian silver
Material & Composition
High-purity Silver (likely .900 to .925 purity) as indicated by the '90 GRAM' weight stamp; solid metal construction
Finish & Decoration
Hand-chased repoussé work featuring intricate floral vines and traditional Thai 'Lai Thai' scrollwork; bright-polished base with hammered surface texture
Hallmarks & Stamps
Hand-stamped Thai script indicating the maker/shop and the silver weight '90 GRAM'; lacks international hallmarks (lion/925) but uses regional weight-based marking
Construction Details
Raised by hand from a flat silver sheet; the high relief decoration (repoussé) is achieved by working the metal from the inside and outside; hand-forged base
Functional Features
Hemispherical bowl design used for ritual offerings, water ceremonies, or as a decorative presentation vessel
Handle & Grip Details
Handle-less design (standard for 'Khan' style bowls); gripped by the rounded body
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-wrought quality; the repoussé is deep and consistent without breaking the silver skin; evidence of 'chasing' from the exterior to sharpen detail
Authentication Indicators
The presence of Thai script combined with a metric weight stamp is consistent with 20th-century Thai silver production; authentic hand-raised tool marks on the base
Origin & Manufacturing
Thailand, likely manufactured in a traditional workshop in Chiang Mai, a hub for silver repoussé craft
Era & Period
Modern Era (mid-20th century to contemporary); reflects traditional Rattanakosin design style
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1990; the 'GRAM' lettering and font style on the base suggest mid-to-late 20th-century production
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Khan' bowl tradition, central to Thai hospitality and religious merit-making for centuries
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratches and minor tarnish in the recessed areas of the chasing; no visible dents or deformation; stamps remain crisp and legible
Value Estimate
$120 - $180 USD, based on current silver spot price plus a premium for the artisan labor and traditional craftsmanship
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cotton cloth and mild silver cream. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the intentional patina in the deep crevices of the chasing
Similar Pieces
Burmese Repoussé Bowls (typically heavier/thicker high relief); Khmer Silver Bowls (different crown-style motifs); Indonesian Filigree (uses wires rather than hammered sheets)
Interesting Facts
The weight of silver is often the primary selling point in Southeast Asian markets, which is why '90 GRAM' is stamped more prominently than a purity mark