Dragon Scale Fishing Lantern, 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 very authentic in its appearance. Trees, flowers, and bamboo carvings can be seen on the panels, and there are working bells hanging from the roof. The name Ryū no Uroko (竜の鱗) is Japanese for dragon scales. This refers to the structure of the entire lantern, which is very similar to the scales of a dragon.