Southeast Asian 22K/24K Repoussé Offering Bowl
Decorative Bowl / Religious Vessel · Yellow Gold (High Karat Alloy / Gold Gilded)
Purity: Likely 22K (91.6%) to 24K (99.9%) high-karat gold or heavy gold-plated brass based on visual texture; 22K is standard for Thai/Cambodian ceremonial vessels.
Type
Decorative Bowl / Religious Vessel
Purity
Likely 22K (91.6%) to 24K (99.9%) high-karat gold or heavy gold-plated brass based on visual texture; 22K is standard for Thai/Cambodian ceremonial vessels.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High Karat Alloy / Gold Gilded)
Weight
Estimated 150g to 350g depending on thickness; solid gold variants are heavy (dense), while gilded brass variants (common for this size) are significantly lighter.
Description
An exquisite Southeast Asian offering bowl featuring intricate hand-chased repoussé work. The central medallion and surrounding radial bands depict stylized mythical motifs and geometric patterns common in Buddhist temple art. The vibrant golden hue suggests a high-purity gold surface intended for ritual use or as a high-status gift.
Key Features
Radial repoussé technique, stippled texture in recesses for contrast, raised central medallion, and a uniform traditional 'Phan' bowl silhouette.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich golden-yellow tone characteristic of high purity; satin-textured background with high-polish raised repoussé relief and slightly oxidized recesses.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on the interior; typically found on the bottom surface of the foot or rim, often in Thai or Sanskrit script or purity numbers like '96.5' or '99'.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 100mm to 150mm; height of 50mm to 75mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; decorative elements consist purely of metalwork including stippling and relief patterns.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; open vessel with integral foot.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single-piece structural body.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-hammered from the reverse (repoussé) and finished from the front (chasing). Excellent symmetry in the radial pattern with consistent stippling depth.
Authentication Indicators
Color depth suggests high karat; red flags for enthusiasts would be any green copper-verdigris at the base or seams which would indicate gold-plated brass rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely Thailand or Cambodia; hand-crafted by skilled metalsmiths specializing in traditional religious or royal-style art.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Traditional Southeast Asian (Traditional design language inspired by Ayutthaya or Khmer periods).
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century to contemporary (1970s - Present) based on tool precision and uniformity.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Phan' (offering tray) tradition in Thailand and Cambodia, symbolizing respect, merit-making, and high social standing.
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor surface scratches consistent with handling; no significant dents or structural deformations visible; slight tarnishing in deep relief areas.
Value Estimate
If solid 22K gold, market value would exceed $10,000 based on weight; if gold-plated brass, the value is decorative ($50 - $200).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid abrasive polishes that can thin high-karat gold; store wrapped in acid-free tissue in a climate-controlled environment.
Similar Items
Thai Gold Suphannarat (water jars), Silver Repoussé Bowls (more common), and lower-karat gold-plated ceremonial altar sets.
Interesting Facts
In Southeast Asian cultures, gold vessels are often used to present offerings in temples or stored as generational wealth; Thai gold is traditionally 23K (96.5% purity).