A rare and impressive four-part granite ikekomi’dôrô 活け込み燈籠 (buried garden lantern) of the Hotaru 蛍燈 (firefly lantern) type, carved from granite in a soft grey tone with dark natural inclusions. The lantern is composed as follows. The base consists of a cylindrical post, or sao 竿, intended to be partially buried in the ground and symbolising chi 地 (earth). Above this sits the chûdai 中台 (platform), representing sui 水 (water). The hibukuro 火袋 (fire box) is rectangular in form. Two opposite sides are pierced with rectangular openings, while the other two sides feature distinctive hourglass-shaped openwork formed by opposing triangular cut-outs. This element represents ka 火 (fire), as it traditionally houses the light source. When illuminated at night and viewed from a distance, the triangular openings evoke the flickering movement of fireflies drifting through trees, hence its name. The roof, symbolising fû 風 (air), is deliberately more roughly finished, a characteristic feature of this lantern type. The original lantern for this design is found beside the pond at the Katsura Imperial Villa 桂離宮in Kyoto, Japan. Approximate dimensions: Height 109 cm, Width 55 cm, Depth 55 cm Buried portion of the base approximately 25 cm The precise dating of stone lanterns is often difficult. We believe this example dates from the 19th century, late Edo period to early Meiji period. It has developed an attractive, soft outdoor patina from long-term garden placement and is in very good condition. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference. For transport, the lantern will be placed on a wooden pallet and carefully packed. When shipped, we will also include a certificate of authenticity.