AYUTTHAYA CERAMIC PRODUCTION DURING THE 15TH TO 18TH CENTURIES

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study ceramics and describe the process of Ayutthaya ceramic production from the Klong Sra Bua and Klong Bang Koad kiln sites, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Research has mapped, though archaeological and ethnographic data, the development and changes of Ayutthaya ceramic manufacture, and identified cross-cutural regularities and variavilities in producted by the Department of Fine Arts’ excavation team, between 1999-2002, at the Klong Sra Bua and Klong Bang Kuad kiln sites, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Other studies in clude: comtemporary ceramic ethnographical observations and surveys in related regions ( especially Pattani province, southern Thailand), the Far-east, Middle-east, and the Indian subcontinent.

The hypothesis to be tested is whether some ceramic manufacture of Ayutthaya period learnt from experienced potters, who taught the next generation through traditional methods, and where the sudden change in process of ceramic manufacture in Ayutthaya Klong Sra Boa and Klong Bang Kuad Kiln sites derived. For example, the primarily kiln firing cross- cultural potters, and later app;ied to generate products which matched their own styles, behavior and environment.

A comparative study was conducted with typological classifications of the archaeological excavation records. Ethnological data was then applied to interpret archaeological data for ceramic production, with the core results listed below: Ayutthaya ceramic production was located on both banks of the Klong Sra Bua, located north of the island city, around the second half of the 15th century A.D. Initially, they produced mainly architectural meterials, especially tiles; probably on royal demand.

The ceramic makers were experts in oblong updraft kiln firing techniques and settled on the western bank of the canal, conducting their trade for more than a hundred years. Later, a need for architectural materials forced them to embrace a new kiln technology; a semi dome draft kiln, introduced by the main Chinese ethnic groups who settled in Ayutthaya and also featured prominently in court and commerce. This technique was applied throughout the later period of Ayutthaya, dating from the first half of 17th century until the 18th century; the decline of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Apart from architectural materials, various earthen potteries were also produced. Another ethnic group settled on the eastern bank of Klong Sra Bua whose open bonfire techniques were typically practiced to make storage vessels and pots that served as kitchenware.