Thai Sterling Silver Repoussé Offering Bowl
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Offering Bowl) · Thai Silversmith (unidentified mark in Thai script). Traditional Thai silver workshops are concentrated in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Pattern: Traditional Thai 'Phan' or 'Khan' style with high-relief repoussé floral and mythological motifs.
Type
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Offering Bowl)
Maker
Thai Silversmith (unidentified mark in Thai script). Traditional Thai silver workshops are concentrated in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or higher (likely .925 to .950). Common in Thai silver to exceed standard sterling purity.
Dimensions
Approximately 3-4 inches in diameter; Weight: 90 Grams (approx. 2.89 troy oz) as indicated by the stamp.
Description
A quintessential example of Thai silverwork, this small bowl features dense repoussé ornamentation around the perimeter. The base is left largely plain with a hand-hammered texture, showcasing the organic nature of the construction. These bowls are central to Thai social and religious life, used for pouring water in ceremonies or holding small offerings.
Key Features
Hand-stamped weight on the base; high-relief decorative band; artisan Thai script hallmarks.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or higher (likely .925 to .950). Common in Thai silver to exceed standard sterling purity.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé with chasing. Features floral patterns on the sides and a hammered finish on the base. Mirror-polished base.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Three lines of Thai script and '90 GRAM' weight stamp. The Thai text likely denotes the maker name and silver purity (e.g., 100% or 925).
Construction Details
Hand-hammered and raised from a single silver sheet. The decorative relief is hand-chased from the interior (repoussé).
Functional Features
Hemispherical bowl with a flat base for stability. Designed for ceremonial food or water offerings.
Handle & Grip Details
None; bowl form designed to be held in the palm of the hand.
Craftsmanship Details
High quality hand-wrought piece. The weight-to-size ratio reflects a solid, durable construction rather than a thin machine-pressed alternative.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Thai script; '90 GRAM' stamp placement; visible hand-hammering marks on the interior/exterior base; high-purity silver appearance.
Origin & Manufacturing
Thailand (likely Bangkok or Chiang Mai). Hand-wrought using traditional chasing tools and pitch blocks.
Era & Period
Modern Era (20th Century). Thai silver craftsmanship follows traditional Sukhothai and Ayutthaya period styles.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to contemporary (c. 1970 - present) based on the 'GRAM' lettering and condition.
Cultural Significance
In Thailand, silver bowls like this are used in 'Rod Nam Dum Hua' ceremonies during Songkran (New Year) and as merit-making vessels in Buddhist temples.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface scratches on the base; light tarnish in the deep recesses of the repoussé work. No visible dents or repairs.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, depending on the current silver spot price and artisan reputation.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water to remove dust from crevices. Use a high-quality silver cloth (like the Poliboy cloth shown in the image) for light polishing. Avoid abrasive chemical dips.
Similar Pieces
Burmese repoussé bowls (taller, more figurative) and Indian silver bowls (often with more geometric patterns).
Interesting Facts
Traditional Thai silver is often higher than 92.5 percent purity because softer metal is easier for artisans to hammer into complex relief patterns.