What’s this Japanese Designer’s Secret? Candle-lanterns.
©James Kaoru Bury
It’s a clever design, inspired by the traditional Japanese paper lanterns (chouchin) often found outside houses and at doors. The grooved candle, with a thick wick in the centre, transforms into a lantern as it burns; the light and shadow effect starts when the wick goes deeper inside. It’s an ingenious idea which means the wax doesn’t run, but it’s also a nod to Japanese traditions. Clever.
The brains behind this creation is Japanese designer James Kaoru Bury. Born in Osaka, he trained in product design at Tama Art University. This candle therefore has a double meaning, with one foot in the past but looking to the future at the same time. It’s perfect for a candlelit dinner… well, lantern-lit.
©James Kaoru Bury
©James Kaoru Bury
©James Kaoru Bury
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