Carved from substantial teak, this monumental Thai temple chofa reflects the extraordinary craftsmanship of nineteenth-century Buddhist architecture in Thailand. Originally positioned along the roofline of a sacred temple (Wat), its soaring form combines deeply carved relief with delicate openwork. At the center, a celestial figure (a Deva or guardian spirit) rises beneath an elaborate tiered makuṭa headdress, surrounded by flowing botanical forms and a weathered lotus base. The deeply hollowed reverse reveals the architectural channel through which the finial was once secured to a temple roof ridge. A rich honey-brown patina, exposed grain, stable age splits, and weathering speak to years of outdoor exposure. Mounted on a simple black exhibition stand, its architectural presence translates beautifully into a contemporary interior.
“These chofas would go on top of houses in Thailand to protect against the evil spirits.” – Clayton Korver