【Important notes】 ・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities. ・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee. ・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support. 【Product details】 These two traditional Japanese paper lanterns (chochin) date to Showa 14 (1939). Each lantern features an iron hanging handle at the top, a wooden upper base, a bamboo framework, and hand-applied washi paper. The front is inscribed with 正一位稲荷大神 (Shōichii Inari Daimyōjin), the highest honorary title given to the deity of Inari shrines, which are said to be the most numerous in Japan. The reverse side bears the dedication date “A fortunate day in December, Showa 14” (1939), along with the names of three individual donors who contributed these lanterns to the shrine. Inari, originally derived from the word meaning “rice growing,” was historically worshipped as the deity of rice and agriculture. Over time, Inari came to be revered more broadly as a guardian deity of prosperity in business, industrial growth, household safety, and general good fortune. The fox is famously regarded as the messenger of this deity. Red lanterns like these are commonly displayed at shrine grounds or at shop entrances to express prayers for “prosperity in business” and “abundant harvests.” Wear consistent with age, including abrasions, tears, stains, and rust. The accordion structure of the paper is delicate and prone to tearing, so please handle with care. Please refer to the photos for details. Dimensions: approx. H 60-60.5 cm W 35 cm D 34.5-35 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. ・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!