Asano — Gifu lanterns, made by hand since 1917, and the Paper Moon lamps Shigeru Uchida designed for them.
The Story
Gifu has made paper lanterns since the Edo period, thanks to its river, its forests and the paper mills of nearby Mino. Asano Shoten opened there in 1917 and still works the old way: bamboo ribs wound by hand, washi pasted on, edges cut with a razor. Since 1999 its lantern forms are drawn in CAD and laser-cut, which lets the craft carry new shapes, like the five Paper Moon lamps Shigeru Uchida (1943–2016) drew in 1990.
The Collection
Paper Moon
The Chochin Lamps
To Hang
For Designers & Trade
Softening a spa, a hotel or a client’s bedroom? The LoftModern Trade Program gives approved professionals trade pricing (up to 20% off retail on eligible brands) and concierge support.
Questions We Hear Most
What is a Gifu chochin?
A paper lantern from Gifu, Japan, built from thin bamboo ribs wound around a form and covered in fine washi; the craft was designated a traditional craft of Japan in 1996.
Why are there five Paper Moon shapes?
Shigeru Uchida drew them as a family in 1990, from the tall Paper Moon 3 to the low Paper Moon 4, so they can be grouped like a landscape.
Which Asano lamp is right for the floor?
The Chochin lamps (Donguri, Tawara, Mari) stand about 50 cm high and glow beautifully on the floor; Paper Moon 4 and 5 work there too.
How do I look after washi paper lamps?
Dust them gently with a soft dry cloth or a feather duster, never with water, and keep them in dry rooms.
Can designers get trade pricing on Asano?
Yes, through the LoftModern Trade Program, with up to 20% off retail on eligible brands.
