Produced in China for the Thai market, this kettle's yellow background shows that it was most likely made for Buddhist monks. Since King Rama III, Thai kings bestowed gifts like this as a formal recognition of the rank and status of the recipient. Copper was deemed to be particularly suitable for monks given their dedication to a life of poverty.This kettle has a tiered lid that terminates with a finial that resembles a lotus bud. It would have been used in Buddhist ceremonies.
