This impressive, 6-part carved granite pedestal garden lantern 立ち灯籠 (tachi’dôrô) belongs to the Kasuga’dôrô 春日灯籠 type. It derives its name from Kasuga-taisha 春日大社, a renowned Shinto shrine in Nara, where these type of lanterns are commonly found. It is characterized by its tall and slim design, often seen near the second torii 鳥居 (Shinto shrine archway). From bottom to top, the lantern is composed as follows: - The base, or kidan 基壇, combined with the kiso (platform), which is elegantly shaped like lotus petals 蓮弁 (renben). - A cylindrical pillar (sao 竿) adorned with three horizontal ribs, symbolizing chi, the earth 地. - Above this sits the chûdai 中台 ('central platform'), symbolizing water (sui 水), also adorned with lotus petal motifs and wave reliefs. - The hibukuro 火袋 (fire box) forms the next segment. Hexagonal in shape and representing ka 火 (fire), it houses the light source, featuring two open panels for light insertion, one lattice-work window, and three panels with bulbous stylized reliefs, including a deer 鹿 (shika) design as a nod to the deer of Nara Park, known for its large population of wandering deer. - The 'umbrella' roof (kasa 笠), also hexagonal and edged with warabite 蕨手 (fern-scroll motifs), represents air (fû), symbolizing its proximity to the sky. - The pinnacle is the hôju 宝珠, shaped like a budding lotus and known as the ‘wish-fulfilling jewel,’ representing the void or spirit (kû 空). Approx. dimensions: Height 104 cm, Width 35 cm, and Depth 34.5 cm. The age of these lanterns is difficult to determine. We think that this one is from the Shôwa period (1926-1989). It has a soft appealing outdoorsy patina by being placed outside for several years. It is in a very good original condition. Please look at the photos for a condition reference. Please note that the colour of this lantern (when dry) is a tad lighter than shown in our photos, as the lantern was wet from rain when the images were taken. We will use a wooden pallet and good packing for safe transport. When shipped we will also add a certificate of authenticity. Spring is here, and it's the perfect time to refresh your garden. Our Japanese garden ornaments are back in stock, ready to add elegance and tranquillity to your outdoor spaces. So keep an eye on us weekly for the newest additions.