A folding lantern

Description:

Japan, late Edo / Meiji period
H. 21,4 - cm/ D. 18,2 cm
Constructed with a paper shade supported by independent, accordion-like bamboo ribs, allowing the lantern to be folded flat for compact storage within the cylindrical, black-lacquered fittings at the top and bottom. The upper section is decorated with the Tokugawa crest in gold and fitted with a metal mount incorporating a suspension loop. The lower section is fitted with a handle and metal mounts. Both the upper and lower fittings feature an aperture, presumably intended for securing the lantern to a carrying pole.
From an old German private collection - This type of lantern was developed during the Edo period (1603-1867) and was valued as a particularly lightweight and practical item of travel equipment. It was used primarily by travellers and pilgrims making their way on foot along the historic Tōkaidō Road - Traces of age and use