Tai Yai pentagonal lantern

The Tai Yai pentagonal lantern is a remarkable piece of traditional craftsmanship that reflects the beauty of Tai Yai culture and local wisdom. Rooted in Mae Hong Son Province and other parts of Northern Thailand, this handmade creation carries not only aesthetic value but also profound spiritual and cultural meaning passed down through generations. With its distinctive geometric form, vibrant colors, and exquisite detailing, the pentagonal lantern is designed to be more than just a decorative item. It serves as a “symbol of faith,” commonly used in important cultural events such as the End of Buddhist Lent, Loy Krathong, the Tai Yai New Year, and other religious ceremonies. Lit during nighttime, the lantern represents spiritual guidance, hope, serenity, and blessings. A key visual element of the Tai Yai pentagonal lantern is the thoughtful use of color and pattern. Shades such as red, yellow, green, and blue are deeply symbolic within the Tai Yai worldview: red conveys vitality, courage, and prosperity; yellow signifies enlightenment, kindness, and purity; blue represents peace, stability, and faith; and green reflects nature, balance, and growth. These colors are skillfully arranged on the lantern’s surface alongside motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, geometric shapes, and religious symbols, creating a harmonious fusion of visual beauty and emotional resonance.

The creation of each lantern is a meticulous and complex process that requires skilled craftsmanship, experience, and deep knowledge of materials. It begins with selecting premium bamboo—lightweight and resilient—which is then finely cut and shaped into strips before being assembled into a strong, symmetrical pentagonal frame. The frame is covered with translucent mulberry paper or delicate Toray fabric, ideal for both illumination and decoration. Artisans embellish the lantern with intricate cutwork, hand-painted patterns, or golden paper accents to enhance its elegance. A flowing tail, made from fabric or colored paper, is added as a final touch, bringing a sense of graceful movement to the piece. Every step is completed by hand, making each lantern a one-of-a-kind artwork, impossible to duplicate by machine. Each lantern is truly a unique and personal expression of artistry. While the pentagonal lantern is steeped in traditional heritage, it has found new relevance in modern settings. It can be used to enhance the ambiance of resorts, homestays, restaurants, or cafés, bringing a warm, inviting atmosphere full of character and local identity. It is also an ideal gift or souvenir for travelers, art enthusiasts, or organizations that support meaningful local products with cultural depth. Choosing a Tai Yai pentagonal lantern not only brings beauty into your space but also contributes to the preservation of local craftsmanship and provides sustainable income for households in Mae Hong Son. Supporting local artisans means becoming a part of cultural conservation.

The Saneh Khom Tai Group, based in Pang Lor Community, Chong Kham Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, is among the most respected artisan groups known for their quality, creativity, and dedication to passing on traditional artistry to the next generation. The group continuously develops new lantern styles to meet the demands of both domestic and international markets while preserving the essence of Tai Yai culture. Their work exemplifies how cultural capital can be transformed into meaningful and sustainable economic value.

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)