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Traditional Thai Oil-Paper Umbrella (85cm) – Vintage Handcrafted Sun Parasol & Decor

Traditional Thai Oil-Paper Umbrella (85cm) – Vintage Handcrafted Sun Parasol & Decor

Regular price $59.99 USD
Regular price Sale price $59.99 USD
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In the historic artisan villages of Chiang Mai and throughout ancient Southeast Asia, the oiled-paper umbrella (Rom Bo Sang) has been crafted by hand for over two centuries. Once carried by royalty and revered monks to signify dignity and protection against the tropical sun, each umbrella represents hours of patient, generational craftsmanship passed down through families of master woodworkers and painters.

This Vintage Thai Oil-Paper Umbrella honors that celebrated folk tradition. Built on a flexible bamboo and softwood armature, the ribs are joined with fine hand-spun threadwork that opens and closes smoothly. The 85cm (approx. 33.5") canopy is fashioned from natural oiled paper, treated with traditional natural oils that give the surface a gentle, water-resistant sheen and a warm, translucent glow when backlit by the sun.

Adorned with hand-painted vintage motifs—from delicate tropical floral blossoms to graceful birds—each brushstroke is executed individually, making every umbrella a distinct piece of living art. The smooth turned wooden handle rests comfortably in hand, balanced for outdoor strolls, cultural festivals, photography sessions, and dance performances.

Beyond its classic use as a sun parasol, this 85cm umbrella makes an eye-catching design element for interior spaces. Suspend several umbrellas upside down from high ceilings to create a dramatic, floating canopy in dining rooms, boutique hotels, and covered verandas, or mount one open against a feature wall as an expansive, fan-like sculptural medallion.


Key Details:

  • Authentic Handcrafted Artisan Build: Hand-assembled from seasoned natural bamboo ribs, turned wood, and oiled paper.
  • Generous 85cm (33.5") Canopy: Proportioned for shade during sunny walks, photography shoots, and decorative displays.
  • Hand-Painted Vintage Floral Art: Decorated with traditional botanical motifs; each parasol showcases unique brushwork variations.
  • Translucent Sun Canopy: Natural oil-treated paper diffuses harsh sunlight into a warm, flattering ambient glow.
  • Multipurpose Decorative Accent: Hang from ceilings for floating event canopies, mount on walls, or use in dance and photo props.
  • Smooth Traditional Mechanism: Collapses and opens using traditional bamboo slider joinery without metal springs.

 

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