Akari Light Sculptures by Isamu Noguchi are considered icons of modern design. Designed by Noguchi beginning in 1951 and handmade by the original manufacturer in Gifu, Japan, the paper lanterns are a harmonious blend of Japanese handcraft and modernist form.
The lamps are created from handmade washi paper and bamboo ribbing, supported by a metal frame.

In 1951 Isamu Noguchi began to design the Akari Light Sculptures, works characterised by weightless luminosity. He chose the name 'akari' for these objects, a word that means 'light' in Japanese, connoting both illumination and physical lightness. During a journey to Japan, Noguchi paid a visit to Gifu, a town known for its manufacture of paper parasols and lanterns. While there he sketched his first two Akari Light Sculptures, and over the following years he created a total of more than 100 models, consisting of table, floor and ceiling lamps ranging in size from 24 to 290 cm.

To create the ribbed shape, thin bamboo rods are stretched across the original wooden form designed by Noguchi. Then washi paper is cut into strips and painstakingly adhered to the bamboo ribbing. After the drying process, the wooden form is removed and the lantern can be collapsed flat. This video highlights the skill and expertise of Ozeki’s artisans.

Specifications - Akari lamp collection:

Lampshades: washi paper, some partially painted. Some models with end pieces in wood/bamboo.
Structure: bamboo/steel wire.
Legs: painted steel wire.
Light source: 4W LED
Socket: E27
Dimmability: not dimmable.
Kelvin: 2700 K (warm white).
Max. watt: 12 W
Energy efficiency: E
Cable length for table lamps: 130 cm.
Cable length for floor lamps: 300 cm.
Cable length for ceiling lamps: 220 cm.