A beautiful, tall five-part granite ikekomi’dôrô 活け込み燈籠 (buried garden lantern), hexagonal in form and carved from grey mottled granite. The base consists of a hexagonal post, sao 竿, designed to be partially buried in the ground, symbolising chi 地 (earth). Above rests the chûdai 中台 (platform), representing sui 水 (water). The hibukuro 火袋 (fire box) is also hexagonal and features two opposite rectangular openings, two solid panels, and a pair of opposing reticulated windows in the form of a crescent moon and the sun. This element symbolises ka 火 (fire), as it traditionally housed the light source. The curved roof represents fû 風 (air) and is surmounted by an onion-shaped finial symbolising kû 空 (void or spirit), completing the ascent toward the sky. Approximate dimensions: Height 128 cm, Width 57 cm, Depth 54 cm. Buried section of the base: 24 cm. The exact age of stone lanterns such as this is often difficult to determine. We believe this example dates from the Meiji period (1868–1912). It has developed an attractive, weathered outdoor patina from long-term exposure and is in very good condition. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference. We will use a wooden pallet and careful packing for safe transport. When shipped, we will include a certificate of authenticity.