edited by Eleonora Ippolito
Tradition and art encapsulated in symbolism and deep meanings of oriental culture. The Japanese lanterns are fascinating objects inherited from ancient times, which have also arrived here in the West over the years. The purpose of displaying them is for us purely aesthetic and decorative: many are the Zen-style gardens enriched by these soft and elegant light spots.
But what is the real and original meaning contained in such lanterns? What is their history and what do they symbolise? A past of luminous rituals Lanterns have a very ancient history dating back as far as the 11th century: they are said to have been introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks. They initially had ritual and religious purposes and were made of stone.
These are still present in many sacred places in Japan and are called Ishidouru, which means 'stone lantern'. With the passage of time, lanterns also became popular in Shinto temples, gardens and the homes of wealthy people. Shapes and materials have evolved over time, making the lantern one of Japan's most evocative objects. But what is their profound significance?
A symbol of deep spirituality The lanterns, in Japan, represent a safe haven for spirit guides during their spiritual journey and beyond. They also symbolise spiritual enlightenment, so dear to the Buddhist tradition. During wartime, lanterns also had the task of appeasing the wrath of the spirits of slain combatants: these mystical lanterns were lit to prevent the victims from tormenting those who had snatched their lives. In fact, lanterns are also used today for the commemoration of the dead: floating or flying lanterns are released on the water or
in the air to allow eternal light to accompany the spirit of the deceased person. In this regard, the evocative Lantern Festival is one of Japan's most
famous. It takes place between 13 and 15-16 August and is an ancient Buddhist celebration in honour of the dead. The exact name of this event is Urabon, also shortened to Obon or Bon,
and has the task not only of honouring and remembering the souls of the dead, but also of consolidating the bond with one's family, with banquets, courtesy visits and gifts.
Functions, styles and tradition in front of temples or at the entrance of more traditional restaurants,
in gardens or during religious ceremonies. Japanese lanterns have acquired different forms, names and functions over the centuries.
Tourou was originally a generic term for any type of Japanese lantern, whereas today it refers to lamps made of heavy materials such as stone, bronze, iron or wood, found mainly in Buddhist or Shinto religious sites or in traditional Japanese homes.
This kind of lantern is divided into two types: the aforementioned Ishidourou and the Tsuridourou, traditional hanging lanterns, a direct evolution of the former, found mainly inside shrines and made of iron and glass.
The best-known Japanese lantern, however, is the graceful Chochin: made from a bamboo frame and covered with a sheet of rice paper or silk to protect the flame from the wind, it is usually hung from the ceiling or canopy. Very famous is the red, sometimes decorated Haka-Chochin, still found outside bars and restaurants but also in Buddhist temples or during traditional festivals. If handmade, they can be unique and valuable pieces.
Andon is a type of lantern made from a frame of bamboo, wood and metal, wrapped in rice paper to protect the flame; they have a cubic or cylindrical shape and are placed on the ground.
This type of lantern was particularly used in the Edo Period (1603-1868) and there are various versions, depending on location and functionality.
Full of symbolism and allegory, in Japan the lanterns are also placed between hedges and vegetation, i.e. in the most hidden and silent parts of the garden, just as
our human 'I', hidden and detectable only after a long search through a dense tangle of illusions.
The Rising Sun in the garden
There are now many Italian gardens furnished with Zen taste and recalling the outdoor style of Japanese homes. Plays of light and colourful shades reflected
in the water give harmony and serenity to an atmospheric yet minimalist environment. A perfect balance between the elements and between nature and man, where lanterns are
the lustrous and sophisticated finishing touch.
The choice of the type of lantern to use is truly vast. Lanterns are characterised above all by the material and style in which they are made, which also determines their price. Among the most popular and inexpensive are lanterns made of stone or wood. There are also lanterns that run on electricity, 'westernised' for practical reasons but far removed from the Japanese tradition that favours the exclusive use of natural materials. Shapes and styles are also characterised by the shape of the lantern hats: octagonal, round or pagoda-shaped. Each one adapts to one's personal taste and Zen ambience, for a garden of great class and spiritual identity. An oasis of peace with an oriental flavour.
A fine decorative choice, the lantern will add peace and elegance to your personal green space.
