Kendis (derived from Sanskrit: kundika) are the ubiquitous water vessels of Southeast Asia. They are pouring vessels with a spout of various shapes on the side of the vessel body. The bodies are globular with or without a low foot. The spouts the spouts can be straight, curved, bulbous (or mammary), or in the form of an animal head. They have no handles, so the pot is held by its neck while pouring. The shape of the necks varies but generally has a flared mouth. Kendis are made in a variety of materials, including earthenware, stoneware, glazed ceramic, porcelain, pewter, brass, bronze, and silver alloy. They were produced in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and in China as export ware. Kendis were made in different sizes, with small vessels typically used for dispensing medicine and magic potions, or as children toys. Besides their everyday usage, they were also used for ceremonial purposes. Representations of kendis are replete in the stone narrative panels of Borobudur and other Southeast Asian monuments.
This kendi is from Thailand and was produced in the Sawankhalok kilns during the 16th century It is made of stoneware with a cream slip, underglaze brown painted decoration, and pale blue glaze. It has a globular body with a foot ring, bulbous spout, and a slightly tapering neck. The decorative program includes bodhisattvas with their hands held in the gesture of adoration (anjali mudra), floral motifs, and checkerboard patterns.
