JAPANESE LANTERN; YUKIMA-GATA

Stone lanterns were developed in 16^th century Japan as a method of lighting garden paths leading to tearooms. Traditional tea ceremonies were often held in the evening. Guests would be expected to attain a certain level of mental refinement before reaching the tearooms, aided by strolling through a peaceful inner garden. Every element of the tea ceremony was designed to discourage distraction and promote inner harmony. Various forms of lantern evolved: Yukima-gata (snow-viewing lanterns)

Yukima-gata are characterized by their low posture and open legged design. They are the most common type of lantern and are often found near water. They derive their name from the way that snow delicately gathers on their roofs. In this series:

Mashikaku (square) yukima-gata, Kosai (small) yukima-gata, Kukei (rectangle) yukima-gata

Shown in Western Slate.