Rankei Tsuridoro, Japanese Metal Lantern

Metal lanterns are seen in Japan as sacred sources of light. A widely used way to ward off evil spirits. Because of this, they can be found at temples and shrines throughout the country. But they are also very common in people's homes and gardens.

Most Japanese metal lanterns can be placed upright, but it is customary to hang them on a chain. This is where the name Tsuridōrō (釣り灯籠) comes from, which is Japanese for “hanging lantern”. There are various ways to light the lantern. You can use a candle or oil lamp, but an electric one is usually a good option as well. The light that shines from the lantern, and the silhouettes that are created as a result, create a particularly warm atmosphere.

This specific Tsuridōrō is a very unique example with its exceptionally detailed carvings. Originally, this lantern was part of a Buddhist temple in the area of Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. The striking egg-shaped appearance of the Tsuridōrō is what gives rise to the classification Rankei (卵形). This is Japanese for egg-shaped.