Ponpisai Pottery

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stoneware
Stoneware is a product that requires high temperatures of 1200-1300 C in its production process (as opposed to low temperature used in earthenware products). The result is a product that is exceptionally hard and highly resistant to high temperature , and effective in preventing any seepage. The texture and colorations are darker and polished due to the clay's high iron content. The types of firewood used also affects stoneware's color and texture, often resulted in a tint of green or yellow patina.

Evidence was found from archeological sites in Banchaing in Udonthani Province 's Nongharn District that the northeastern craftsmen started exploring earthenware over 3000 years ago later, Thai stoneware began during Lopburi Period (approx. 2 B.C.) , and have been found mostly in the upper part of Thailand's northeastern region (Esarn region) within the Songkram River watershed covering Udonthani, Nongkai, and Nakonpanom Province. The most renowned stoneware however was from the Sukhothai Period (approx. 500 A.D.) ,which is known as 'Sangkaloka'produced during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng(approx.1000 A.D.).Sangkaloka was glazed stoneware.Ashes from the firing process were used for coating. Sangkaloka is similar to 'Celadon', the stoneware coating method widely used for water jars in Ratchburi Province.

The stoneware from Ponpisai District is typically non-glazed, dark,and with a slight shinepatina.The temperature used for its production ranges from 1200-1240C. Stoneware and earthenware are local pride and considered highly sophisticated both artistically and technologically.