Tai Yai Table Lamp

The Tai Yai Table Lamp is a refined handicraft that reflects the cultural identity of the Tai Yai people—an indigenous ethnic group in Mae Hong Son Province known for preserving their deep-rooted traditions and local wisdom. This lamp is a creative evolution of the traditional five-sided Tai Yai lantern, which has long been an essential element in local religious and cultural festivals such as the End of Buddhist Lent, Loy Krathong, and annual merit-making events. By transforming a ceremonial hanging lantern into a contemporary table lamp, the artisans have maintained the original charm and symbolic design while adapting it for modern living spaces. Whether placed in a home, resort, café, restaurant, or reading nook, this lamp serves not only as a source of light but also as a living piece of art, rich with meaning, elegance, and cultural depth. In Tai Yai belief, light symbolizes "the light of Dharma"—a guiding force toward wisdom, peace, and prosperity. This spiritual significance is delicately woven into each lamp, offering warmth, positivity, and a sense of well-being to its surroundings. Each piece thus becomes more than a decorative item; it is a cultural symbol of beauty, belief, and soul.

Crafting the lamp begins with carefully selected bamboo, chosen for its strength and flexibility. The bamboo is split into fine strips and shaped into a five-sided frame, a geometric form with cultural resonance in Tai Yai tradition. Skilled artisans cut each piece to precise dimensions, then bind the corners securely using cotton or hemp twine. Vertical bamboo strips are added to connect the top and bottom bases, forming a lightweight yet durable structure suitable for tabletop use. Once the frame is complete, it is wrapped with natural mulberry paper or sheer fabric, custom-cut for each side. Latex or rice glue is used to adhere the material neatly to the frame. These surfaces diffuse the internal light into a soft, calming glow. The colors of the coverings are thoughtfully chosen based on Tai Yai spiritual meanings—yellow for wisdom and light, red for vitality and prosperity, green for freshness, and blue for stability and peace. Each hue not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also carries deeper symbolic value. Next, traditional decorative motifs—often inspired by nature and local art—are cut from paper and applied to the outer surfaces of the lamp. These include floral patterns, leaves, or geometric designs that add character and authenticity to each piece. For lighting, the lamp is equipped with a small, energy-efficient LED bulb that emits minimal heat, safe for use with the natural materials. The bulb is securely mounted on a wooden base, with cleanly routed wiring for ease of use. The result is a fully functional lamp ready to grace any space.

The Tai Yai Table Lamp is a product of meticulous craftsmanship at every stage—from material selection and frame construction to meaningful decoration and practical lighting design. It embodies a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary sensibility, making it suitable for various interior styles—minimalist, modern, or bohemian. By choosing this table lamp, you’re not only selecting a high-quality local product but also helping sustain the way of life of the artisan community. The Sané Khom Tai Group of Pang Lor village takes pride in their work, which not only generates income but also carries forward the wisdom passed down through generations.

Crafted by: Saneh Khom Tai Group

Pang Lor Community, Chong Kham Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand

Phone: 095-936-9568, 085-618-0789

Facebook: กลุ่มเสน่ห์โคมไต (Saneh Khom Tai Group)