A very rare "Benjarong" yellow ground double gourd vase China, Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1912), Daoguang (1820 - 1850) Bencharong is a unique type of enameled porcelain made exclusively for Siamese royalty of the Chakri Dynasty, between the late18th and early 20th centuries. This exquisite Bencharong porcelain vase, shaped in the classic double gourd form, is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand.Bencharong, meaning "five colors," refers to the polychrome enamels used in the decoration of these ceramics. This vase exemplifies the unique blend of Chinese porcelain craftsmanship with Thai artistic sensibilities. The double gourd shape, symbolizing longevity and prosperity, is a popular form in Chinese and Southeast Asian ceramics. This vase features two bulbous sections, one stacked upon the other, creating a visually appealing and harmonious form. The narrow neck and flared rim add to its elegance. Bencharong vases like this were often used for decorative purposes, displayed in homes, temples, or palaces as symbols of wealth and status.Bencharong porcelain holds significant cultural importance in Thailand, where it was highly prized by the royal court and aristocracy. These ceramics were often commissioned as gifts or used in ceremonies, reflecting the wealth and status of their owners. Bencharong ware represents a fusion of Chinese porcelain craftsmanship with Thai artistic traditions, creating a unique and highly valued art form. Provenance: French private collection - Galerie art asiatique, Marseille References: BENCHARONG in the JIM THOMPSON MUSEUM COLLECTION Warren, William, Jim Thompson, The House on the Klong, text on the art collection by Jean-Michel Beurdeley, photography by Luca Invernizzi Tettoni, Singapore, Archipelago Press, 1999. Robinson, Natalie V., Sino-Thai Ceramics in the National Museum, Bangkok, Thailand and in Private Collections, Bangkok, The Department of Fine Arts, 1982. Rooney, Dawn, Betel Chewing Traditions in South-East Asia, Kuala Lumpur, Oxford University Press, 1993. Height: 36 cm