Isamu Noguchi Akari Light Sculpture, Model 50en Ceiling Lamp

Akari Light Sculptures by Isamu Noguchi are considered icons of 1950s modern design. Designed by Noguchi beginning in 1951 and handmade for a half century by the original manufacturer in Gifu, Japan, the paper lanterns are a harmonious blend of Japanese handcraft and modernist form.The lamps are created from handmade washi paper and bamboo ribbing, supported by a metal frame.Noguchi adopted the term Akari, a Japanese word meaning ‘light,’ with associations to both illumination and weightlessness.As part of the marketing for Akari, Noguchi came up with a logo that combined a stylized sun and crescent moon like the Japanese ideograph it is based on (明). The ideograph became synonymous with Akari, featured on the early envelopes and packaging and in the form of a red stamp at the base of each lantern.Hand-made form by Ozeki & Co. Ltd., Gifu, Japan.Pristine condition. No rips or holes. Hardwire cord included. Bulb is not included.