WORKSHOPS

Traditional lantern frames were primarily built of bamboo or wood and covered with paper or light fabrics to form a semi-transparent container. Much like candles, the inside light source was made of liquid oil with a wick. During the prosperous Tang and Song Dynasties (618 - 1279 A.D.), precious materials including animal horns, leather, feathers, jade, and colored glaze were utilized to create exquisite patterns for lanterns. Their shapes ranged from gorgeous flowers, lively animals, divine statues of buddhas, and more. The design of traditional lanterns used many elements of Chinese culture, such as well-known folktales, auspicious Zodiac animals, and awe-inspiring pagoda-like structures.