Legless lantern 置燈籠 (oki-dôrô) - Granite - Japan - Taishō period (1912-1926)

A rare two-piece granite legless lantern 置燈籠 (oki-dôrô), of the 寸松庵 (Sunshôan) type. Its compact hexagonal form has no pedestal: the fire chamber 火袋 (hibukuro) rests directly on the ground, with shallow, cusped arches carved along its lower edge. Each face has a rectangular opening with recessed edges. A broad, gently sloping roof 笠 (kasa) shelters the chamber. At its centre rises a lotus-bud-shaped finial 宝珠 (hôju), the “wish-fulfilling jewel”. In the traditional symbolism of stone lanterns, the fire chamber represents fire, the roof air, and the finial the void or spirit. Approx. dimensions: Height 39.5 cm, width 43 cm, depth 36 cm. Period: Japan – probably early 20th century (Taisho period). Stone lanterns of this type can be difficult to date precisely. In very good condition, with an attractive weathered patina acquired through long outdoor use. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of its condition. The lantern will be carefully packed and shipped on a wooden pallet. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.

Estimate:£418.79

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