Vintage Japanese Andon Standing Paper Lantern, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0788

Vintage Japanese Andon Standing Paper Lantern, Early Showa 1927-1945 | SKU: 26J-0788

A freestanding washi paper lantern with lacquered stand, iron oil cup, and storage base -- an intimate light source from early Showa Japan.

An andon is a traditional Japanese paper lantern used indoors for soft, diffused ambient lighting, typically fueled by oil or candle. This handcrafted example follows the classic standing andon form: a square shade box framed in red-lacquered wood and fitted with washi paper panels on all four sides, suspended on a tall black-lacquered hinoki wood upright with a sculpted carrying handle at the top. Inside the shade, an iron ring cradle holds the original oil cup or candle vessel in place -- a detail that speaks to the lantern's authentic, pre-electric origins. A maker's or inspector's inscription is brushed onto the inner post, adding a personal mark of period craftsmanship consistent with early Showa domestic production. The deep black lacquer of the stand contrasts beautifully with the warm red shade frame, a color pairing associated with refined Japanese vintage furniture of the era.

In the modern home, this vintage Japanese andon makes a striking living room accent or entryway statement piece. Fit it with a battery-operated LED candle to recreate its warm, washi-filtered glow safely -- perfect for Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interiors. The lacquered storage base conceals a small pull-out drawer, ideal for tucking away matches, remote controls, or small keepsakes, making it as functional as it is beautiful. The andon's removable paper panels and disassembling shade allow for easy transport and storage. A truly unique housewarming gift or collector's centerpiece for anyone drawn to handcrafted Japanese vintage pieces and the quiet beauty of traditional Japanese lighting.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Hinoki wood (cypress) with black and red lacquer finish, washi paper panels, iron oil cup cradle
• Use: Freestanding indoor oil or candle lantern for ambient lighting in traditional Japanese interiors
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway accent lamp (with LED candle insert); decorative display piece in Japandi or minimalist decor; unique gift for collectors of Japanese vintage furniture
• Features: Square washi paper shade with red-lacquered wood frame; black-lacquered upright post with sculpted carrying handle; original iron ring oil cup cradle mounted centrally inside shade; removable washi panels; black-lacquered base box with small pull-out drawer and ring pull; brushed inscription on inner post
• Dimensions: 13"W x 13"D x 35 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and complete example of vintage Japanese andon craftsmanship -- bringing the soft warmth of traditional Japanese lighting into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.