Chinese. LANTERN OF TWISTED WIRE AND FORGED METAL ON A WOODEN BASE. 19th to early 29th Century. Made by hand, probably following a pattern, the openwork of this beautiful lantern is made by twisting metal wire around heavier metal rods into hexagonal shapes to form a "cage" which lifts off to reveal a base with a "spike" on which a candle can be affixed. The cage is lined with white paper, so that when the cangle is lit, the lantern provides a soft glow. At the top is a hand-forged ring and hook from which the lantern can hang and swing. A handsome and elegant object in very good condition.
