A tall and impressive six-part granite pedestal garden lantern 立ち灯籠 (tachi’dôrô) of the rare shihôbutsu 四方仏-type. This distinctive form is characterised by the hibukuro carved on four sides with meditating Buddhas, each seated above a lotus pedestal, giving the lantern a solemn and devotional presence. From bottom to top, the lantern is composed as follows: • Base (kidan 基壇) with kiso, carved with a ring of lotus petals 蓮弁 (renben). • Cylindrical shaft (sao 竿) with horizontal ribs symbolising chi 地, the element of earth. • Chûdai 中台 (central platform) representing water (sui 水), decorated with lotus-petal motifs and rectangular reliefs. • Hibukuro 火袋 (light chamber) forming the fire element (ka 火). Hexagonal in shape, with two opposing rectangular light openings, and other opposite corners with reticulated crescent moon and sun, flanked by the carved meditating Buddhas. • Kasa 笠 (umbrella roof), a tiered hexagonal roof reminiscent of a stupa, symbolising air (fû 風). • Hôju 宝珠 (finial) shaped like a budding lotus, the ‘wish-fulfilling jewel,’ representing the void or spirit (kû 空). Approx. dimensions: Height 144 cm; Base approx. 56 × 48 cm, Bury height approx. 14 cm. Period: Japan – 19th century (Late Edo period/Early Meiji period). The lantern has developed a soft, attractive outdoor patina from long exposure to the elements. It is in a very good condition. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference. We will secure the lantern on a wooden pallet with proper protective packing for safe transport. A certificate of authenticity will be included upon shipment.