Rare Pair

Unusual find one pair “Human Effigy” lanterns – the first we have seen

A fine and rare matching pair (2) of large 12 inch tall Chinese export hand cast lanterns with attractive and mystical “human effigy” designs on both the front and backs of each lantern- handsome and intriguing details , lanterns date to the early to middle part of the 20th century. Top right and left scalloped shaped appendages possibly emulate human coiffure. Openings under bottom of each lantern allow easy access to install your favorite lighting device.

The striking and well proportioned old lanterns are fashioned from solid iron with hefty iron loop handles and four feet allowing flexible installation from above or below- just the way we like to find them.

Dimensions: Each is 12 inches tall to top of loop handle and 7 inches width

Heavily hand cast. Hard to find style and quality craftsmanship especially as a matched pair. These are for the discerning garden or sculpture collection. Gentle use wear from the prior owner(s) indicate pride of ownership.

Only one pair.

Lifetime guarantee of authenticity. We are members of NAJGA- North American Japanese Garden Association.

We have been dealing in authentic Japanese, Chinese, and fine Asian art, garden ornaments, lanterns and water basins for 25 years. Our president personally travels to Japan and Europe each year to meet his network partners who assist him in finding best examples. He personally inspects each antique work of art to ensure its old age, authenticity and quality condition.

About Asian lanterns.

The lantern tradition is a concept that was imported from India and has existed in Japanese and Chinese temples and gardens since the 7th century.
Originally conceived as entrance lighting and guardians to temples and pagodas, they were conduits to light and offerings to Buddha. Some of the earliest lanterns were carved with Buddhist images on the firebox and usually had compartments for an oil lamp or candle. Later on, they became more secular in nature, and their use evolved as functional and decorative elements in traditional Japanese and Chinese tea gardens where they served as a spiritual source of light for evening tea ceremonies. Often cast in iron and carved from granite stone, today’s vintage survivors serve as fashionable aesthetic elements in modern day Asian inspired gardens. During festivals and ceremonies, rice paper is often cut to fit lantern windows to increase reflection of candles placed inside them. Soon these paper lenses disappear, but for one special evening and event, the glow is surreal.