Trajectory defines our world. As energy ebbs and flows, particles bounce in every way imaginable, forming the structures and bodies we see today. Even though they may seem static, the same is true for paper and textiles—their fibers are positioned in a specific directionality, unique to their content and circumstances of creation. In this way, every material contains its own terroir: one of a kind, just like us. This sensitivity to the unique nature of fiber is at the heart of Taiwan-Lantern’s first lighting collection, which builds on ancient techniques and fuses them with modern forms.
Showing at ICFF this year, the warm glow of the lanterns falls softly on to the floor below. Nine artisans work on each facet of these designs: layers of stone, lacquer, and light merge into an overall balanced and beautiful composition.
Taiwan-Lantern’s lamps are designed by founders Pei-Ching Hsiao and Jean-Marc Daniëls in Amsterdam. Collaborating closely with one of the last remaining traditional lantern factories in Taiwan, they are working to keep ancient arts alive. Asian traditional techniques for fabric, bamboo, wood, and ceramics are used to craft contemporary forms, extending the longevity of this crucial artisanal knowledge.
The slight satin sheen on the form of the luminaires, in contrast with the glossy porcelain and matte stone, is quite welcome—a chance to contemplate the layers of history summed up in a singular object. These quiet contemporary translations of time-honored craftsmanship are refreshing in our era of planned obsolescence.
To learn more about Taiwan-Lantern’s new collection of luminaires, visit taiwan-lantern.com.
Photography courtesy of Taiwan-Lantern.
