The Face of Glory
From the book “The Legend of Tableware and Ceramic Wares” by His Royal Highness Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, penned in 1917, it is written: “The arrangement of Chinese tea sets in Siam reflects the preferences and creativity of the Siamese people, rather than adhering strictly to Chinese traditions.
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Siamese tea sets take on various distinctive forms, such as the Pun Nuay Tuay Bai set, the Aan Ma set, the Chinese set, the Thai Tuay Si set, the Thai Tuay Si Pun Khu set, and the Dao Lom Deuan set, among others. What sets the Siamese tea set apart is its unique presentation—teapot and teacups arranged together on a single tray—a feature not seen in traditional Chinese tea culture. The Pun Nuay Tuay Bai set, for example, epitomizes a simple yet elegant style of the past. It consists of a single lidded teapot paired with a small dish underneath, all placed neatly on a tray, free from rigid rules or constraints.”
RCB Auctions proudly presents a rare Pun Nuay tea set for all to admire in this Live Auction. This carefully curated set features intricate ‘laithong’ decoration—a traditional overglaze gilding technique that employs a gold-infused solution in varying concentrations to achieve its radiant effect. Adding to its allure, the set is adorned with ‘Kala Face’ or ‘Kirtimukha’ motif, a design inspired by the sculpted embellishments often found on pediments and finals of ancient architectural landmarks.
The Kala motif, rooted in mythical imagery, depicts a fearsome creature combining the features of a demon and a lion. Its striking appearance includes furrowed brows, bulging round eyes, a large nose, and a wide mouth revealing upper teeth and fangs, but notably lacks a lower lip. Without a body, its form features arms extending from the sides of the head and an ornate headdress resembling a frontal crest. The name ‘Kirtimukha’ derives from Sanskrit, combining “kirti” (fame or glory) and “mukha” (face), translating to “Face of Glory”. This auspicious meaning makes the Kala Face a fitting symbol for adorning key architectural elements, such as pediments and arches, where it bestows an air of reverence and protection.
Lot 101
A rare and fine Benjarong tea set painted with gold outlines of Kinnaras amid a flame surrounded with floral vine scrolls on a green ground, accompanied a silver gilt tray decorated with Shou characters and Swastika characters
Style: Thai, Rattanakosin
Dimensions: W 27.5 cm H 11 cm
Circa: 19th Century
Estimated Price: 500,000 - 700,000 THB
Starting Price: 80,000 THB