A fine five-part carved granite garden lantern, known as a ‘Kaku Yukimi Ishidôrô’ 角雪見石灯籠, a square-based snow-viewing lantern characterised by its broad overhanging roof and low, well-balanced proportions. The lantern is carved from softly toned grey granite with natural variations in the stone. Its wide kasa 傘 (roof) is the defining feature of this type, designed to catch and display snow during winter. The term yukimi 雪見 literally means “snow-viewing”, referring to this seasonal effect. The lantern is composed of the traditional five-part structure. The lower sao 竿 (post) supports the chûdai 中台 (platform), above which sits the hibukuro 火袋 (fire box), originally intended to contain the light source. This is surmounted by the broad kasa and upper finial. In Japanese Buddhist cosmology, these elements are commonly associated with the five elements: chi 地 (earth), sui 水 (water), ka 火 (fire), fû 風 (air), and kû 空 (void or spirit). Period: Japan – Shôwa period (1926-1989) Dimensions: Height 83 cm, Width 78 cm, Depth 68 cm. It is in very good original condition with natural traces of outdoor exposure and an attractive weathered patina. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition. For safe transport, the lantern will be securely packed on a wooden pallet. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.