Japanese Lanterns 

TITLE: Japanese Lanterns
​ARTIST: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
TYPE: Sculpture

ABOUT: Japanese lanterns or toro, are lanterns made of stone, wood, or metal. These lanterns originated from China, but were eventually adopted by Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Toro were used by Buddhist monks to light passageways to temples, and were regarded as offerings to the Buddha. The shape and design of the toro reflects Buddhist belief in the five elements that shape the world: earth, water, fire, air, and spirit. This type of toro, one that sits on the ground instead of hanging, is referred to as a dai-doro.

READ MORE: https://japanobjects.com/features/japanese-lanterns​ 
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​LOCATION: Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, Midland, Michigan