Collection: Paper Lamps

The Millennium Gallery Japan's paper lamp collection features soft forms and unique designs, deeply rooted in "chochin," traditional Japanese paper lanterns. Chochin, with their long and celebrated history in Japan, are still meticulously crafted today by artisans in three particularly famous production areas, using techniques passed down through centuries to create paper lamps perfectly suited to modern lifestyles.

Unique Japanese paper lamps, like those in Isamu Noguchi's acclaimed lamp series (often known as Noguchi lamps or the Akari Lamp series), inspired by "chochin," not only serve as exquisite accent pieces in interior design but also bring unrivalled warmth and tranquillity to a space with the soft, diffused light through the Washi paper. Paper lamps do more than just illuminate; they enrich your environment as genuine works of light art, embodying Japanese minimalist aesthetics and a truly simple, yet impactful, design.

Imagine the gentle, amber glow of a Washi paper lamp adding a sense of serenity to your living room or bringing comforting calm to your bedroom. Elevate your living space with these rare, functional, and beautiful pieces of paper lighting art that seamlessly fuse traditional techniques with unique, contemporary designs—an investment in timeless elegance.

In the whirlwind of our fast-paced lives, we yearn for inner peace, aspiring to transform our homes from mere dwellings into sanctuaries that soothe both mind and body. This collection is especially for you—one who values authentic Japanese craftsmanship, the rich narratives woven into each piece, and unparalleled, enduring design. We proudly present a Paper Floor Lamp that not only serves as a striking interior statement piece but also bathes your room in a soft, diffused glow through Washi paper, enhancing the ambiance and subtly turning your space into a haven of tranquility and refined aesthetics.

The Light of Washi: Connecting Culture and Soul

Crafted with traditional Japanese lantern techniques, our authentic Japanese Paper Floor Lamp is more than just a source of light; it is an embodiment of centuries of Japanese aesthetic heritage, a symbol of warmth and serenity born from Washi paper meticulously handcrafted, sheet by sheet, by master artisans (Takumi). The light that filters through this unique paper is uniform and gentle, painting your space with calm, subtle shadows, perfect for creating an uncluttered and peaceful atmosphere. Its minimalist yet organic form resonates deeply, fostering a tranquil ambiance—a true escape from the clamour of daily life. This piece represents a lasting investment in refined design and enduring craftsmanship.

For Lovers of Design and Mindfulness: An Escape from the Everyday

If you are drawn to design, wellness, and mindful living, our Paper Floor Lamp is your gateway to the captivating elements of Japanese culture, such as Zen spirit and minimalism. It is crafted for those who, like you, seek the unparalleled uniqueness and soul-infused quality that mass-produced items can never replicate, valuing authenticity and artisanal excellence. Its serene, understated presence lends an intellectual and sophisticated touch to any room, beautifully embodying the essence of Japandi style: the rich textures of natural materials, the subtle dance of light and shadow, and the pursuit of a calm, mindful existence.

Elevate Your Healing Space 

Our Paper Floor Lamp will transform your living room or bedroom into more than just a visually appealing space—it will become a true "sanctuary" for profound relaxation and wellness. Bathe in its soft light as you read, meditate, or share quiet moments with loved ones. These become invaluable moments for easing daily stress and restoring inner equilibrium. Furthermore, even when unlit, the lamp’s gentle, organic silhouette stands as an elegant accent piece, enhancing the serenity and refined aesthetics of your living room or bedroom, embodying functional art.

Paper lamps are lighting fixtures reminiscent of traditional Asian lanterns, bringing warmth and a soft, diffused glow to modern interiors. The light shining through the paper shade gently envelops living rooms and bedrooms, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Lamps made with traditional Japanese Washi papermaking methods, particularly those popularised by Isamu Noguchi's Akari series, have become a trending favourite in interior design, beloved for their soft illumination and unique texture, marking them as timeless design pieces.

While Washi paper lamps have a long history, they have been thoughtfully reinterpreted as contemporary designs, resulting in various styles, from functional and modern to purely decorative. Lightweight and portable paper shades offer remarkable flexibility, suitable for not only paper floor lamps but also table lamps, touch lamps, and bedside lamps in various functions and styles, adapting seamlessly to diverse UK homes.

Traditional Washi Paper Lamp Manufacturing Methods: A Legacy of Precision

Although they may appear simple, paper lamps require a surprising number of steps and highly skilled techniques in their construction. Traditional Japanese paper lamps, typically called "chochin," are manufactured using techniques broadly categorised into the following four types. Even today, many Japanese paper lamps are handmade by multiple artisans using their specialised skills through a similar multi-stage process, ensuring unrivalled quality and authenticity.

Handmade Washi Papermaking Techniques

The production process of handmade Washi paper involves over ten meticulous steps. First, the raw plant materials are harvested, steamed, and stripped of their bark. This "kurokawa" (black bark) is soaked in water to soften it, and the outer layer is meticulously scraped off to make "shirokawa" (white bark). It is then boiled in an alkaline solution like lye or soda ash to further soften it, and impurities are carefully removed. Next, the net-like bark is beaten to loosen the fibres, creating the raw material for Washi paper. This is mixed with water in a traditional tool called a "sukibune" (papermaking vat), and a viscous liquid called "neri," which prevents the fibres from sinking and disperses them, is added before each sheet is individually made. Afterward, the water is squeezed out using a press, and the wet paper is dried. Drying methods include air-drying and using heated iron plates. Finally, the paper is cut to size and made into products. This series of processes requires the unparalleled skill and dedication of artisans, representing traditional craftsmanship and a commitment to sustainable methods.

"Hari" (Stretching) Techniques

In the "hari" process of "chochin" making, a frame called "hari-gata" is assembled, and thin bamboo strips called "higo" are wound spirally to shape the lantern. The quality is determined by how the "higo" are wound and the number of "me" (stitches), with higher quality having finer stitches and more delicate "higo," signifying superior craftsmanship. Then, reinforcement is done by "itokake" (thread hanging) where thread is hooked onto the "higo," and thin paper called "koshibari" is applied to the top and bottom of the lantern. These steps prevent stretching and damage, ensuring durability and longevity. Next, wheat flour paste is applied evenly, and the paper is carefully stretched and pasted. The precise use of brushes and the correct amount of paste require the highly skilled technique of artisans. After pasting the paper, excess parts are trimmed with a razor, taking great care to make the seams invisible, resulting in a flawless finish. After the base and top layers are applied and dried, the "hari" process is completed by removing the mold and folding the "hibukuro" (lantern body). This meticulous work underpins the beauty and durability of the "chochin," making it a lasting piece of art.

"Surikomi" (Rubbing) Techniques

"Surikomi," a traditional technique of Gifu "chochin," is an essential process for creating beautiful patterns on the lanterns. Based on the original picture, a printing block for the outline is carved to create a line rubbing. Then, Ise katagami (paper stencils) are carved by "surikomishi" (stencil rubbing artisans) and reinforced with lacquer or varnish, ensuring their durability for repeated use. The number of stencils varies depending on the product rank, with higher-grade items requiring more, sometimes up to 100, reflecting the complexity and exclusivity of the design. Before "surikomi," "dosa" (sizing) is applied to the paper, giving it gloss and stiffness while preventing the pigment from bleeding, thus ensuring pristine quality. In the "surikomi" process, pigments are kneaded and rubbed onto the paper through the stencils. To beautifully reflect the lantern's light, emphasis is placed on three-dimensionality, with delicate expressions of light and shade, and gradation. Techniques like "bokashi" (blurring) and simultaneous two-colour rubbing are also used for efficient and beautiful finishing, showcasing the artistry and skill involved. This intricate process, requiring the skilled techniques of artisans, is at the heart of "chochin" making, guaranteeing its aesthetic appeal and lasting beauty.

"Etsuke" (Painting) Techniques

"Etsuke" in Gifu "chochin" is a traditional technique where the design is directly painted onto the plain "hibukuro" without preliminary sketching, requiring advanced skill to achieve a uniform pattern on the uneven curved surface. Approximately ten "hibukuro" are lined up, and flowers, stems, and leaves are drawn in sequence based on a sample. To ensure consistent colour and arrangement, the position is precisely measured as the drawing progresses, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail. The blending and shading of paints significantly affect the light transmission and ethereal expression when the lantern is lit, demonstrating the functional aesthetic of the piece. Brushes and Japanese painting techniques are also carefully chosen, with techniques like "bokashi" (blurring), "tarashikomi" (dripping), and "hikkake" (scratching) used to create a three-dimensional effect, enhancing its sculptural quality. After all the processes are completed, thin lines and leaf veins are added for the finishing touch. This process requires the artist's descriptive ability and experience, playing a crucial role in determining the overall beauty and sophistication of the "chochin."

Representative Paper Lamp Series: Isamu Noguchi's AKARI Lamp

As one of the most representative paper lamp series, Isamu Noguchi's "AKARI Lamp" is widely recognised as a symbol of the perfect fusion of Japanese traditional crafts and modern design. Noguchi (1904–1988), a celebrated Japanese-American sculptor, created many innovative works by integrating Japanese traditional culture and Western aesthetics with his unique sensibility. The "AKARI Lamp" is one such work that truly crystallises his vision, offering timeless functional art.

This lamp series is produced using the traditional techniques of Gifu "chochin," one of the three major chochin production areas in Japan. Gifu "chochin" are traditional Japanese crafts made using thin and durable Mino Washi paper and easily processed bamboo from Gifu, reflecting sustainable sourcing and traditional materials. Noguchi adopted these techniques to create the "AKARI Lamp" composed of Washi paper and bamboo strips. The design, where soft light diffuses through the Washi paper, brings the warmth reminiscent of moonlight into living spaces, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

The name "AKARI Lamp" comes from the Japanese word "akari," meaning "light," symbolising the beauty of light itself. The series includes a wide variety of styles, such as stand lamps and pendant lights, all with minimalist yet sculptural beauty. The unique texture of the Washi paper and the soft lines of the bamboo strips create a quiet elegance.

Noguchi positioned the "AKARI Lamp" not merely as a lighting fixture but as a "light sculpture." His work expertly connects Japanese and Western aesthetics through a fusion of respect for traditional culture and innovative design. As a result, the "AKARI Lamp" has earned high praise both in Japan and abroad and continues to hold a special presence in contemporary interior design, embodying lasting quality and iconic design.