This antique Japanese Andon, a collapsible Chochin lantern called Goshinto, dates back to the late Meiji period (1890s-1910s). It is crafted from paper and wood, featuring the inscription 成川氏 (Narukawa family) on the paper.
Features
- Type: Collapsible Chochin Lantern (Goshinto)
- Period: Late Meiji Period (1890s-1910s)
- Origin: Japan
- Materials: Paper and wood
- Inscription: 成川氏 (Narukawa family)
Background of Chochin Lanterns
Chochin lanterns are traditional Japanese lanterns that have been an integral part of Japanese culture since the Muromachi period (1336–1573). These lanterns are made from a frame of split bamboo covered with paper or silk, and they became particularly popular during the Edo period (1603–1868).
Chochin lanterns are used in various settings, including festivals, ceremonies, and as decorations in homes and temples. They serve both practical and symbolic purposes. Practically, they are used to light the way during evening festivals. Symbolically, they are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
The collapsible nature of some Chochin lanterns, like this Goshinto, makes them highly portable and convenient for storage. The inscription 成川氏 (Narukawa family) indicates the family to which this lantern belongs, adding a personal and historical touch to the piece.
8"diameter x 36"Long