NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, offers thousands of limited edition and one-of-a-kind gifts, jewelry, and home decor treasures handmade by master artists and artisans throughout the world. Intricate motifs recall the splendor of a peacock's feathers. The precise patterns are enhanced with golden bands. Khun Santiparp crafts a delicate jar of Benjarong porcelain; its lid recalls Thai temple spires. Duangjai is a popular name in Thailand. Benjarong takes its name from the Sanskrit words panch and rang, which means "five colors." It refers to a traditional style of hand-painted Thai porcelain. Red, yellow, white, green, and blue are the most frequently used colors; however, some pieces contain as many as eight colors. Santiparp kneads a mixture of kaolin and then shapes the piece on the potter's wheel. Once dry, it is fired for five to six hours at 800 degrees C and glazed with a mixture of burnt lime, wood ashes, and secret natural materials. The piece is fired again for twelve to thirteen hours at a temperature of 1,280 degrees C. When the piece is totally cooled, Santiparp applies gild and enamel by hand, one color at a time. He fires the piece a third time for five to six hours at 700 to 800 degrees C in an electric kiln with electronically controlled temperatures. Care instructions: These pieces will shine forever and require only a damp cloth to wipe away dust. Benjarong is not dishwasher safe. If cleaning is needed, use a gentle dish soap and soft sponge.
