Shrine Lantern

This project was long in the germination phase, my admiration for the form established many years back. The proto-typing work also involved a considerable time investment. After carefully studying some 85 examples of Japanese freestanding lanterns, I set about designing and then building this piece, which is composed of some 185 interlocking joined pieces:

The lantern has a stylized kiri-zuma roof, and is made of Honduran Mahogany, a wood of exceptional durability and stability in service.

A view from up on high:

And a look from below:

The lantern housing contains latticed glass panels and an electrical fixture for a bulb. All electrical wiring is completely concealed, and the bulb is easily accessed.  This is a one of a kind piece, and is absolutely traditional in proportion and build. No corners were cut in the execution of the build, and 90% of the joinery was hand cut. All the pieces are hand-planed and scraped; no sandpaper went near this lantern. There is no finish but the natural planed wood. No metal fasteners or glue is employed in the piece, save for the attachment to the boulder at the base, a connection which employs a pair of threaded metal rods.

While I may not be the most photogenic specimen myself, I include this picture to give the reader a sense of the size of the lantern:

The prototype is available for sale, or a client might wish to commission a custom piece -well, every piece is custom - or two (these lanterns often occur in pairs). Numerous design variations are possible on the theme. Copper roof shingling may be specified as well, along with other roof forms. Price upon inquiry. Installation extra.

If the reader would like to look at a few other selected pieces please click on the following links:

Carol's Step Tansu
Doctor's office reception desk
Mahogany Chairs
Walnut Cabinet

There is also a page of designs, as yet un-built:

Designs

Thanks for visiting!