Image for Chinese lanterns

Chinese lanterns

Chinese lanterns are traditional decorative items, often made from lightweight paper or silk stretched over bamboo or wire frames. They are typically illuminated from within by candles or small bulbs, creating a warm, glowing effect. Used for festivals and celebrations, especially the Lantern Festival, these lanterns symbolize good fortune, prosperity, and the dispelling of darkness. They come in various shapes and sizes, sometimes featuring intricate designs or characters. Modern versions may use electric lighting, but they continue to evoke cultural heritage and aesthetic beauty, serving both as ornamentation and as part of ceremonial displays.