What Sets Akari Apart from Other Japanese Paper Lamps?
Are you considering a Japanese paper lamp to enhance your sophisticated space, but find yourself caught between the iconic Akari and more affordable alternatives? This article explores why Akari stands out among Japanese paper lamps, what distinguishes it from its imitations, and introduces other exceptional lighting options sharing the same heritage.
What is the Japanese Paper Lamp "Akari"?
Akari is a Japanese paper lamp created by the artist Isamu Noguchi. Many drawn to Japanese paper lamps desire the authenticity of Noguchi's illuminated art in their homes. However, the high price tag often leads to hesitation and consideration of cheaper alternatives.
Indeed, the market is flooded with inexpensive Japanese paper lamps mimicking Akari's design, and many may opt for these imitations. Yet, focusing solely on Akari's aesthetics might overshadow its rich background and intrinsic value. Let's delve into the story of Isamu Noguchi and the creation of Akari.
Isamu Noguchi: The Artist Behind Akari
Isamu Noguchi, born to a Japanese father and an American mother, was a prominent 20th-century artist. Though primarily a sculptor, his artistic talents extended to landscape architecture, lighting and furniture design, and even stage design. He spent his early childhood in Japan before moving to the United States at the age of 13, where he studied medicine and sculpture. During World War II, despite being exempt from internment, he voluntarily entered a camp to improve conditions, demonstrating his idealistic beliefs and proactive nature. Contrary to his ideals, he faced numerous hardships in the camp, an experience that profoundly influenced his artistic style.
As an artist, Noguchi was driven by a constant pursuit of innovation, evident in his diverse creative endeavors. His notable works include the UNESCO headquarters garden in Paris, the Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum in New York, stage sets for the Martha Graham Dance Company, and the Noguchi coffee table. The "Akari" series, inspired by traditional Japanese lanterns, is another testament to his genius, captivating people with its enduring appeal.
The Birth of Akari
In 1951, while traveling through Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, Isamu Noguchi stopped in Gifu to witness Ukai (a traditional Japanese fishing method using trained birds). This detour would lead to the creation of Akari. During his visit, the mayor of Gifu City requested Noguchi's assistance in revitalizing the city's lantern industry. Noguchi visited a Gifu lantern factory, where he was deeply impressed by the craftsmanship, materials, and simple structure. The very next day, he produced the initial designs for the Akari series. Noguchi envisioned these contemporary lanterns as "light sculptures" and named them "Akari," a Japanese word meaning "light". To date, the Akari series comprises over 200 designs, all meticulously handcrafted based on Gifu lantern techniques.
The Intrinsic Appeal of the Noguchi Lamp "Akari"
Born from the encounter between Isamu Noguchi and Gifu lanterns, Akari sparked the popularity of simple, uniquely designed paper lamps. Today, many paper lamps on the market are influenced by Akari, with numerous imitations attempting to replicate its design. So, what truly sets Akari apart from these alternatives? While cheaper imitations might seem tempting, let's explore the intrinsic charm of Akari that cannot be replicated by mere design.
Akari Employs the Same Materials and Techniques as Gifu Lanterns
One of Akari's key appeals lies in its adherence to the same traditional methods used to create Gifu lanterns, renowned for their exceptional quality. The lampshade is crafted from natural fiber washi paper, while the frame utilizes bamboo, resulting in a durable, lightweight, and warm-textured lamp.
The Washi Paper Lampshade
Akari's lampshade is made from Japanese washi paper. With some washi artifacts surviving over 1000 years, its durability is remarkable, promising that Akari, with proper care, can be enjoyed for generations. Unlike ordinary paper, the natural fibers of washi absorb and evenly reflect light, creating a soft illumination akin to natural light. Washi's characteristic off-white hue, rather than pure white, complements wood and other interior elements, fostering a serene atmosphere.
These qualities stem from washi's unique production process. It begins with fiber extraction. Kozo wood undergoes repeated drying, washing, and peeling to remove impurities, leaving only pure fibers. The process involves meticulous hand-peeling with knives to avoid damaging the fibers and manual removal of fine impurities that machines cannot eliminate, resulting in long, robust fibers. Next comes the "hand-making" stage, where a tool called "suketa" (a wooden frame with a mesh filter) is used. This challenging task involves scooping the water-soaked fibers with the suketa and intertwining them to form the paper. Mastering the even distribution of fibers requires years of dedicated practice. Through this laborious process, the high-quality washi used in Akari is born. Its exceptional durability and unique texture, unmatched by Western paper, are achieved through meticulous handwork and time.
The Bamboo Frame
The bamboo frame is another significant difference between Akari and typical Japanese paper lamps. While most alternatives use plastic or metal frames, Akari employs bamboo, contributing to its remarkable lightness. Bamboo, cherished globally for its strength and lightness in crafts, has been a prized material for Gifu lanterns due to the high-quality bamboo found in the Gifu region. However, preparing bamboo for use in products is no easy feat. It demands significant effort and a deep understanding of bamboo's properties.
Bamboo contains high levels of oil and moisture, which must be removed before use. After harvesting, the bamboo undergoes an oil removal process. The surface oil is burned off with fire and wiped clean, followed by about a month of sun-drying for complete oil extraction. Once the oil is removed, the bamboo must be stored and dried in a warehouse for several years. Through these steps, the bamboo acquires the durability and beauty suitable for crafting exquisite products. Akari's frame embodies this dedication to time, effort, and skilled craftsmanship.
Handcrafted by Skilled Artisans
Another compelling aspect of Akari is its handcrafted nature. Gifu lanterns boast a history of over 400 years. Their exceptional quality earned them the status of tributes to the shogunate during the Edo period. Akari lamps are meticulously handcrafted by artisans who inherit these traditional Gifu lantern techniques. The fact that all 200-plus Akari designs are handmade speaks volumes about the Gifu artisans' exceptional skill. The warmth and quality derived from human touch offer a value that mass-produced, machine-made products simply cannot replicate.
Japanese Paper Lamps Handcrafted by Gifu Lantern Artisans
We've explored the intrinsic qualities that set Akari apart from its cheaper imitations. But perhaps you seek a design not found in the Akari series, or you're still undecided. As a third option, we present other Japanese paper lamps handcrafted in Gifu, just like Akari. These lamps distinguish themselves by using not only the same traditional techniques but also the same materials as Gifu lanterns. The Mino washi used for their lampshades is considered the finest Japanese paper, with a history spanning over 1300 years. Why not bring the tranquility of these unique Japanese lamps, crafted in Gifu, into your space?
Japanese Paper Floor Lamp "PAPER STONE"
PAPER STONE, with its form reminiscent of an ice stone, exudes a unique beauty and commanding presence. It features "Asarakusuishi" paper, where hemp fibers are embedded into washi and patterns are created with water. This paper is characterized by its taut, glossy texture and the beautiful hemp patterns revealed when illuminated. The combination of the stone-like form and the lustrous washi creates a crystal-like brilliance. This floor lamp is perfect for those seeking a statement piece to accentuate their room.
Japanese Paper Floor Lamp "NIPPON"
NIPPON, supported by four bamboo pillars, is a Japanese paper lamp that balances stability with an airy lightness. It features "Harusame" paper, known for its soft texture and delicate watermark patterns. The contrast between the Mino washi and bamboo creates a beautiful aesthetic even when unlit. Its simple, cylindrical design further enhances its appeal. This well-balanced floor lamp is ideal for those who value harmony with other interior elements.
Japanese Paper Floor Lamp "BEANS LIGHT"
BEANS LIGHT, true to its name, charms with its adorable bean-like shape. Its versatile size suits both floor and table lamp settings, making it an excellent choice for a bedside lamp. The "Kozo-kasu-iri" paper used for its shade offers a rustic texture, while the scattered kozo bark creates elegant shadows when lit. This lamp is perfect for those who already possess classic interior pieces and lighting and seek a unique, playful design.
For those torn between the Akari Japanese paper lamp and its cheaper counterparts, we've delved into Akari's background, its intrinsic appeal, and presented alternative Japanese paper lamps handcrafted in Gifu. Akari and the lamps featured here possess stories and charm that mass-produced items simply cannot offer. Choose the Japanese paper lamp that resonates with you and create a space you'll truly cherish.
