555 Brand Thai Pewter Bud Vase with Repousse Elephant Motifs
Hollowware / Decorative Bud Vase · 555 Brand (Thai Pewter), a commercial manufacturer in Thailand specialized in pewter giftware for the export and tourist market.
Pattern: Traditional Thai Elephant Relief Pattern
Type
Hollowware / Decorative Bud Vase
Maker
555 Brand (Thai Pewter), a commercial manufacturer in Thailand specialized in pewter giftware for the export and tourist market.
Material
Pewter (Non-precious metal alloy, typically 90-97% Tin, with Antimony and Copper; contains no Silver)
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in height; lightweight compared to silver; weight approximately 100-150 grams.
Description
This is a small decorative bud vase made of Thai Pewter. It features a tapered, flared base leading to a bulbous mid-section decorated with a continuous relief of elephants, a symbol of royalty and power in Thai culture. The metal has a characteristic dull grey luster unique to pewter, which does not tarnish like silver but maintains a soft patina over time. It is a common souvenir or giftware item from Southeast Asia.
Key Features
Elephant motif, '97% Pewter' stamp, 555 brand logo, flared trumpet-style foot, satin finish.
Material & Composition
Pewter (Non-precious metal alloy, typically 90-97% Tin, with Antimony and Copper; contains no Silver)
Finish & Decoration
Satin brushed finish with high-relief repousse/cast decoration featuring elephants and jungle foliage in a traditional Thai style; oxidized recesses for contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular stamp on the underside of the base containing a 'Triple 5' (555) logo, the '555' brand name, 'PEWTER 97%', and 'MADE IN THAILAND'.
Construction Details
Cast components (base and body) followed by machine turning to create the smooth flared base and neck; decorative band is likely die-cast or pressed.
Functional Features
Flared weighted base for stability; narrow neck suitable for a single flower or small bud.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the piece is a freestanding vessel intended for display.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; the relief work is consistent but lacks the sharpness of hand-chased silver. The base shows clear lathe-turning marks on the interior.
Authentication Indicators
The 'PEWTER' stamp clearly indicates this is not silver. The '555' mark is a known manufacturer of Thai base-metal giftware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Thailand; factory-produced in an industrial workshop setting following traditional Thai aesthetic motifs designed for global export.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to present)
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010 based on the '555' brand mark and the style of the stamp.
Cultural Significance
Represents the commercialization of the Thai elephant symbol for the international decorative arts market.
Condition Notes
Good; visible surface scratches on the underside of the base from shelf wear. The metal shows minor oxidation common with pewter but lacks the heavy sulfur tarnish of silver.
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD (Low market value as it is a non-precious mass-produced pewter item).
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use silver polish which can be too abrasive; use a dedicated pewter wash if necessary. Avoid dishwashers as the heat can warp the soft metal.
Similar Pieces
Siam Sterling (actual silver) bud vases are similar in size but will be stamped '925' or 'Sterling' and are much more valuable. Other pewter brands include Seagull or Pewterware.
Interesting Facts
Pewter is often called 'the poor man's silver' because of its similar color, but Thai pewter like this became very popular in the West during the 1990s as a maintenance-free alternative to silver for home decor.