Rare Pair of Lanna Chofa (Nok Hatsadiling)

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Rare Pair of Lanna Chofa (Nok Hatsadiling)

A rare and highly significant pair of Lanna chofa roof finials carved in teakwood, depicting the mythical Nok Hatsadiling—a sacred creature with the head of an elephant and the body of a celestial bird. Traditionally reserved for only the most important temples, such chofa were architectural elements of high spiritual and cultural status. Surviving examples are exceptionally rare, with comparable forms historically found at revered sites such as Wat Chet Yod and Wat Chai Mongkorn in Northern Thailand.

These pieces show strong age, character, and patina consistent with long-term exposure and ceremonial use. One chofa bears a pale area caused by historical moisture exposure, resulting in surface mold or fungus—an authentic condition commonly found in weathered architectural teak. Traces of original iron nails remain visible, once used to secure krajok chuen (coloured glass or mirror inlays) that would have adorned the surface; all glass elements are now lost, further emphasizing the age and rarity of the pieces.

Mounted on custom metal stands, these chofa now stand as sculptural artefacts—powerful symbols of Lanna spiritual architecture, craftsmanship, and mythological belief.