A study on the features of Nishimura Kahei’s Rengeji and Okunoin stone lanterns

Abstract

Stone lanterns are important components in Japanese gardens. The stone lanterns made by the three generations of stonemasons Nishimura Kahei from Meiji to the early Showa periods were well-known in Shiga and Kyoto prefectures, but no systematic research was found. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of Kahei’s lanterns and evaluate the masonry techniques with qualitative and quantitative data. We investigated Kahei’s 20 Rengeji and 9 Okunoin lanterns by studying the historical sales records, interviews, and measurements surveys. Besides examining the stone materials, shape features of each part, size, proportion, and carving design and patterns were analyzed based on technical drawings. It was found that all the Rengeji were 6 Shaku with featured Kasa, Hibukuro, and Nuki, while Okunoin were in six different sizes from 5.5 Shaku to 10 Shaku with featured Hoju, Kasa, Warabite, and Hibukuro. Most Rengeji and all the Okunoin lanterns have used brownish fine granite with various designed patterns. The component proportions were highly similar within each type despite the various sizes of Okunoin. It is concluded that Kahei’s lanterns were created by the pursuit of originality and high craftsmanship made possible by stone quality, a balance of proportion of each part, and exquisite carving.