Isamu Noguchi is easily one of the most important artists of the 20th century, working in many mediums and effortlessly crossing stylistic lines. He is most known for his furniture & lighting designs that are licensed and produced by Vitra & Herman Miller to this day; although his work in sculpture, landscape architecture and even theatre set design cannot be understated. The ‘Akari’ series was conceived in a visit to Gifu, Japan, where Noguchi had stopped to witness a night of fishing at a festival in town. It was there that Noguchi experienced the omnipotent light of the traditional Japanese style lantern, and was eventually commissioned by the mayor of Gifu to revive the local lantern industry. After ideating two concepts, Noguchi paired with local lamp manufacturer Ozeki Jishichi Shoten (later Ozeki & Co., Ltd.), and the rest is history.
- 10ʺW × 10ʺD × 65ʺL
This specific example of the Akari series is in good overall condition and is functional, but shows its age readily, mostly by the lack of original rice paper shades, and the loose wire whipping that joins the two bamboo sections (I believe this is an attempted repair by the original owner). I do have a replacement wooden ring in the original Akari box, specific measurements can be provided to aide in replacing the shades.
Local pick-up in Baltimore (21211) or delivery & shipping available! Message me for a quote.
