Regular price $1,999.00 USD
Antique Thai / Burmese Silver Offering Bowl – Chinese Zodiac Repoussé
This is an exceptional, finely crafted antique Thai silver offering bowl dating to the mid-19th century (circa 1850–1899). The exterior features stunningly detailed, high-relief embossed, chased, and repoussé decoration depicting the traditional Chinese Zodiac.
A continuous narrative of zodiac animals—including the rabbit, snake, goat, elephant, and monkey—wraps around the body, set against a beautifully textured background. The upper and lower borders are meticulously detailed with traditional cloud bands (*Mek*) in a sharp zig-zag pattern.
Cultural & Maker Markings
While the piece does not carry a standard modern hallmark, it has been professionally tested to assure a silver purity of **900+ silver**.
Notably, the base features a traditional hand-incised inscription in Thai characters. It loosely translates to **"Srinakon"** (referencing *Nakhon Si Thammarat*, a historic region renowned for master silversmiths) and denotes a weight of **30 Baht** (Thailand's traditional unit of silver measurement). These regional and weight inscriptions serve as a vital historical maker's mark, highly prized by scholars and collectors for authentication.
Item Specifics & Measurements
* **Region of Origin:** Thailand / Burma (Southeast Asia)
* **Age:** Mid-19th Century (c. 1860)
* **Primary Material:** Solid Silver (Tests 900+)
* **Diameter:** Approx. 8 inches (20.3 cm)
* **Height:** Approx. 4.5 inches (11.4 cm)
* **Weight:** 435 grams (30 Baht inscription)
* **Design:** High-Relief Repoussé & Chasing
Condition Report
* **Overall Status:** Excellent antique condition given its age.
* **Structure:** Solid form with **no dents** or structural damage.
* **Surface:** Features a beautiful, authentic aged patina. There is some minor tarnish and light historic residue on the interior surface, which has been left unpolished to preserve its antique integrity.
*Please review the high-resolution photographs carefully, as they serve as an integral part of the condition description.*
References Consulted
* P. Bromberg, *Thai Silver and Nielloware*, River Books Co Ltd, 2019.
* S. Fraser-Lu, *Silverware of South-East Asia*, Oxford University Press, 1989.
* D. C. Owens, *Burmese Silver Art*, Marshall Cavendish International, 2020.
Shipping & Terms
* Shipped with full third-party insurance and secure packaging.
* Item is sold "as-is" in accordance with its vintage and antique nature. Please reach out with any questions prior to purchase.
No refunds cancellations or exchanges. Please contact me with any issues within 3 days of delivery. Refusal to pay import duties/taxes/vat will result in the item being returned with additional shipping charges or destroyed. If returned there may be a refund minus all shipping related costs. If destroyed, no refunds. We use third party shipping insurance. If in the rare event your item arrives damaged. you agree to hold on to the item and packaging and aid in the claims process.
