This image shows the underside of the large Siamese rice bowl displayed in the dining room. The bowl, its footed tray, and ladle are examples of metalwork known as silver niello. Niello is a black compound usually composed of sulfur, copper, silver, and lead used as an inlay on engraved silver, which results in the design being sharp and distinct from the background. The pieces also have a gold wash, giving them their warm color. The central medallion shown here depicts a singha - a mythical creature in the form of a lion which has existed throughout Siamese/Thai history (Siam became Thailand in 1939). It is a symbol of power, strength, courage, and other noble traits.
The bowl was selected for exhibition at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition by King Chulalongkorn, who was titled Rama V; he reigned from 1868 until his death in 1910. The Glessners purchased the bowl at the close of the fair, and used it as a punch bowl.
In March 2014, the deputy secretary to Rama IX visited Glessner House with her entourage to examine the bowl. She confirmed that the presence of the singha and other motifs indicated the piece had originally been made for use in the royal palace.