Haniwa warrior figure

from Gunma Prefecture, Japan

5th to 6th century C.E.low-fired clay49 1/4 in. high

Horyuji kondo

Nara, Japanca. 680 C.E.

Flying StorehouseThe Legends of Mount Shigi

Chogosonshiji, Nara

late 12th centuryhandscroll ink and color on paper1 1/2 ft. high

Katsushika Hokusai

The Great Wave off Kanagawa, from Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji series

Edo Period, ca. 1826-33woodblock print oban, ink and colors on paper9 7/8 in. x 1 ft. 2 3/4 in.

Kano Motonobu

Xiangyen Zhixian Sweeping with a Broom

Muramachi Period, ca. 1513hanging scroll, ink and color on paper5 ft. 7 3/8 in. x 2 ft. 10 3/4 in.

When all is Dark, Let There Be Light

When you first think of a lantern you imagine them floating gracefully into the sky as part of a meaningful event. Many people are surprised when they learn that these dynamic little devices used to be used in wars. When brave soldiers faced the darkness of war, they used light as a way of signaling to their comrades.

These delicate lights are a central part of traditional Asian culture; they have a strong symbolic status and important meaning to the locals. People feel that these spiritual lanterns can give you good luck and prosperity.

Light Up The CelebrationsFollowing their military use, lanterns became very popular with children at carnivals, their bright colors and spiritual natural capturing the children’s imagination. However, nowadays they are used for many different reasons and occasions. In Asia in particular they are used for big festivals, parties, grand openings, birthdays, memorials and sometimes even weddings.