Japanese iron pagoda garden candle lantern. Hand cast iron Japanese candle lantern with hearts on top. Can rest on table or hanged by loop Measures: Height to top of loop 13" top of roof 10". Roof : 9.5" x 10". Hinged door. Circa 1940's. They emit beautiful night light. In a convenient portable size, they may be suspended from loops or installed on any surface. Of dramatic simple design, their iconic motif on their side panels and roof, oversized suspension ring loops, coupled with distinctive solid and stable three display feet. Great craftsmanship. Remnant gently used patina indicates prior use good things appropriate to their good age. Perfect choice for your indoor display area, koi pond, patio or favorite outdoor garden space. History of Japanese lanterns: In Japan a to¯ro¯ (lantern) is a traditional lantern made of stone, wood, or metal. Like many other elements of Japanese traditional architecture, it originated in China. In Japan, to¯ro¯ were originally used only in Buddhist temples, where they lined and illuminated paths and lighted lanterns were then considered an offering. In its complete, original form the lantern represents five elements of Buddhist cosmology: Bottom touching the ground, represents chi, the earth, the next section represents sui, or water, ka or fire, is represented by the section encasing the lantern's light or flame, while fu¯ (air) and ku¯ (void or spirit) are represented by the last two sections, top-most and pointing towards the sky. These last two sections express the IDEA that after death our physical bodies will go back to their original, elemental form.