PROCESS OF MAKING BENJARONG

1. Fine flawless white porcelain pieces which had been fired at the proper temperature (1150 – 1280 degrees Celcius) for many hours are selected for different items.
2. Master craftsmen skillfully draw intricate designs on the ceramic by hand using the finest real gold.
   
3. The patterns are coloured with high quality ceramic glaze paints. The paints are made from mineral colours and must be well crushed and mixed with water in the proper ratio. Traditionally, the painting is done from the rim to the base. This needs to be done very cautiously so as not to touch the painted areas, as this could cause the colours to smudge before the piece undergoes firing. Pure gold is used as prominent accents to colour the rims and to separate the various colours.
   
4. The painted ceramics are then fired in kilns separately for individual colours at 800 to 1000 degrees Celcius for 10 hours. Gold accents are typically applied as a final touch before the final firing further enhancing the design. The gold is masked with a brown medium that burns off during the firing revealing the lustrous gold embellishment. Firing requires precise control of temperature to ensure that the gold and colours shine brightly. In the firing process, the glaze becomes an enamel matrix that is resistant to scratching,
   fading and staining.
5. Each stage of the process requires exceptional skill, dedication and attention to detail, ensuring the final piece is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Thai art and culture.