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Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: Apollo on February 09, 2014, 05:34:35 AM

Title: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Apollo on February 09, 2014, 05:34:35 AM
Hello,
I am seeking some information on these oriental lanterns.  I am advised by my mother that they would be from 1930 or earlier, but other than that I know nothing more about their history.  There were originally four, but only three have survived complete.  They come in two wooden boxes, one of which is shown in the photo.  They are made from a lightweight wood and painted black.  Within the lamp bases, are very rudimentary connections for batteries and a very simple rotary switch.  There is a small screw connection for the bulb.

In particular, I would like to know if they are Chinese, Japanese (or other), confirmation of their age.  I would also like to know what the text on the box labels translates to.

Thank you in advance.
Mike
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Ipcress on February 09, 2014, 06:37:53 AM
Chinese. Don't seem particularly old and i think there's a date there. Will have a look this afternoon.
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Apollo on February 09, 2014, 01:44:31 PM
Thanks Ipcress, any info gratefully received.
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: mart on February 09, 2014, 08:24:00 PM
Has your mother owned these lamps since the 30`s ??
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Apollo on February 10, 2014, 01:57:38 AM
My mother was born in 1936 but her mother had the lanterns before her so she is fairly confident that they are from the 30's or earlier.
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: mart on February 10, 2014, 07:30:35 AM
Can you take a close up of the wiring we see hanging and the on/ off switch ?? The screw in bulb sounds like a Christmas light type !!
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Apollo on February 10, 2014, 08:09:06 AM
Hopefully these photos will help.  I've shown the switch in both the on and the off positions.  The wires appear to be joined and taped just below the shade, before the wires disappear into one of the legs.
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: mart on February 10, 2014, 08:56:30 AM
What batteries does it take ??
Title: Re: Oriental lanterns
Post by: Apollo on February 10, 2014, 09:03:14 AM
Sorry mart, I've no idea... all there is inside are some rather basic brass strips, not even proper connections.