First we’ve seen

Seven (7) squirrels with acorns – handpainted delight

This handsome Japanese hand painted quality “Squirrels” lantern is a special find and an authentic old work of art. It may well be unique. Traces of the original hand painted green and light blue colors are present. The front door access works perfectly and allows you convenient entry to install your favorite lighting device.

Its design is unique to our eyes. Please note the little sculptural squirrel on top and the integrated squirrel and tree trunk designs on all six side panels. In addition, six acorns punctuated with green hand painted color, are engraved into the top roof.

This lanterns’ prolific perforations allow light to burst out creating an enjoyable evening light experience. It is an authentic early example and would be a coveted acquisition for your prominent indoor display gallery or outdoor special garden space.

In a convenient portable size, may be suspended from loop or installed on any surface.

Dimensions: 13 inches tall to top of loop handle and 6 inches diameter, heavy

This handsome lantern would be a conversational display for all your friends and family to appreciate.

Photographed in natural day light.

Provenance: Old American garden.

Many of our customers place LED or candles inside the main section making a romantic and enjoyable decorative accent for entertaining friends and family. It’s a perfect choice for your indoor or outdoor garden space.
Lifetime guarantee of authenticity.

History of Japanese lanterns:

In Japan a to¯ro¯ (lantern) is a traditional lantern made of stone, wood, or metal. Like many other elements of Japanese traditional architecture, it originated in China. In Japan, to¯ro¯ were originally used only in Buddhist temples, where they lined and illuminated paths and lighted lanterns were then considered an offering. In its complete, original form the lantern represents five elements of Buddhist cosmology: Bottom touching the ground, represents chi, the earth, the next section represents sui, or water, ka or fire, is represented by the section encasing the lantern’s light or flame, while fu¯ (air) and ku¯ (void or spirit) are represented by the last two sections, top-most and pointing towards the sky. These last two sections express the idea that after death our physical bodies will go back to their original, elemental form.