Why Were Chinese Lanterns First Made?

Symbolism

• Chinese lanterns were used as a means of communicating significant events to neighbors. The color of lanterns placed outside the home indicated the nature of the event. Red lanterns signified a happy event, such as a marriage or new addition to the family. When there was an illness, a blue lantern was displayed. In the event of a death, two white lanterns were placed on either side of a white sash. The intricacy and expense of the lanterns also communicated the family's status in society.

Military Use

• The military employed Chinese lanterns as early as 206 B.C. during the Han dynasty to alert others of imminent enemy attack or other threats. Zhu Geliang, also known as Kung Ming, created a lantern that would float up into the air for greater visibility to neighboring allies in times of need, rallying reinforcements to fight off approaching danger. These lanterns came to be known as flying lanterns and are still popularly used in celebrations today.

Construction

• The basic design of the Chinese lantern has remained virtually unchanged since its invention, although artisans have experimented with different shapes and materials. There is a spherical frame constructed from a light wood, such as bamboo, or wire with a candle holder at the bottom. The frame is then covered with paper, gauze or silk. This outer covering of the lantern frame diffuses the light from the open flame, creating a soft glow.

Chinese Lantern Festival

• The Chinese Lantern Festival began in 230 B.C. and occurs on the first moon of the new lunar year. It has come to be known as a second new year, and the event is attended with much fanfare today. Originally, festival attendees would raise their lanterns with the hope of seeing deceased relatives and loved ones travel into the heavens. Today, there are contests for the best-designed lanterns, giving artisans to chance to display their talents and creativity in this historic lantern-making art.