Item Description This is a rare, unused deadstock example of Isamu Noguchi's iconic AKARI light sculpture, an indoor table lamp that also works beautifully as a floor accent light thanks to its height. It was originally sold in the 1990s through MOLZA, a former authorised dealer based in Gifu, Japan, and the original box is clearly marked with its vintage model number, AK17. The equivalent current model in the present-day AKARI line-up is the 4N, and this particular model is not currently offered by Vitra, the official European distributor of AKARI light sculptures — making it a rare find for European collectors. It was made by Ozeki & Co., Ltd. of Gifu, the historic lantern maker with whom Noguchi originally developed the AKARI series, as confirmed by the hang tags included with this lamp. As this lamp has never been used, the electrical cord (2m in length, with a pull-cord switch) remains bundled and tied exactly as it left the factory. Please note that in the photo showing the lamp lit, a separate small light has been placed inside for illustrative purposes only; this lamp itself has never been switched on. As further proof of its vintage, unused status, the light bulb included with the lamp is an original National-brand bulb (National was the historic Japanese electronics brand later absorbed into Panasonic). The frame is made of steel wire, and the shade is hand-crafted from washi (Japanese paper). **Please note: Due to long-term storage folded flat, the shade shows some crease lines and, in some places, light brown spot staining. The shade as a whole has also taken on a faint, even discolouration from age, which is not very noticeable in person. There are no tears and no insect damage anywhere on the shade. Please examine the photos carefully and purchase with these condition points in mind. For photography purposes, the lamp has been assembled once from its flat-packed state. Please note that the electrical system is Japanese specification: 100V voltage with a Japanese-style plug, so you will need to arrange your own voltage/plug conversion for use in your country. As the shade is made of flammable washi paper, we strongly recommend using an LED bulb rather than an incandescent one, and please do not use it near beds or cover it with flammable materials. The original branded box is included, although it shows some minor crushing. Dimensions: Height 53 cm, Width 27.5 cm, Depth 27.5 cm. Weight: approximately 250 g. Size Height: 53 cm Width: 27.5 cm Depth: 27.5 cm Weight 250 g Condition Excellent, unused deadstock condition overall, complete with its original bulb and branded box. ***The washi paper shade shows some fold creases and light brown spot staining from long-term storage, with no tears or insect damage. The original box shows some minor crushing. Artist Profile Isamu Noguchi (1904–1988) was a Japanese-American sculptor and designer celebrated for his work spanning sculpture, furniture, landscape and public art. In 1951, while visiting Gifu, Japan, he was inspired by the region's traditional chochin paper lantern craft. At the invitation of the local mayor, he began collaborating with the historic lantern maker Ozeki & Co. to help revive the local industry. Together they developed AKARI, a series of light sculptures that reimagined the traditional paper lantern using bamboo ribbing, handmade Mino washi paper and a light bulb. Noguchi described Akari as "sculptures of light," and the series remains one of the defining achievements of 20th-century design, held in major museum collections worldwide, including The Noguchi Museum in New York. Akari light sculptures remain in production today, now distributed in Europe by Vitra. Notice The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL, FedEx or Japan Post depending on the situation. Please note that we may use recycled cardboard boxes for outer packaging. It takes about 2–3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please note that as of 1 July 2026, the EU has abolished the de minimis customs exemption. All shipments to EU countries are now subject to import duties and VAT regardless of the declared value of the goods. For shipments with a declared value under €150, an additional customs processing fee of €3 may also apply. Sometimes Customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you can answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will be returned to us and it costs more than double the shipping fee for reshipping. We do appreciate your kind cooperation.