Illuminative Paper Lanterns November 12, 2009

The motherlands of decorative paper lanterns are China and Japan. However, nowadays, they are admired by many and are a popular choice for many occasions. Decorative paper lanterns are made in China and are usually put on the ground or suspended. These lanterns differ in shape, found crafted in square, oval and many other forms. Presently, paper lanterns come in multiple colours suitable for any occasion, though traditionally they are white.

The illuminative paper lanterns of China are typically positioned on the floor or strung up dangling and lit up. These paper lanterns are found in various forms. Some are round while some others are in circular and other shapes.Though conventionally paper lanterns are made of white paper, people now use many hues in making them.Chinese illuminative lanterns are made in roughly five different categories. They are labelled as “baby’s bottom”, “tomato light”, “Buddha’s gastronomy”, “tomato lights” and “crystal magic”.

Lanterns of the first category are typically used to decorate religious places on numerous occasions. Crystal magic lanterns live up to their name with bright illuminations and come in various different forms. The large, oval-shaped lanterns are the tomato lights. The colour used for this type is red while rolling paper lanterns remind us of the shape of large canisters.

Rolling paper lanterns are similar, with tall cylindrical forms. They are often used to decorate bars and restaurants. Finally, baby’s bottom lanterns are used widely as Christmas lights. They are considerably smaller than the other types of decorative lantern. Although Japanese paper lanterns are usually round in shape, other designs can be seen as well. Although red is also used, white is the traditional colour.

There is not much difference between Chinese and Japanese lanterns as many different colours are used in the making of both types. Unlike in the past, decorative paper lanterns are now used for many occasions and they come with various encouraging phrases on them as well. Since kanji is identical to Chinese letters, it is difficult to distinguish Chinese paper lanterns from Japanese.

Currently, designed paper lanterns are seen at almost every festival. Decorative paper lanterns are capable of adding that extra festive touch pleasing us with their colours and illuminations whenever we are at festivals or at other occasions.

Cody Scholberg, a lighting expert, writes about hanging paper lanterns. Check out this post on using asian paper lanterns !

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