What is the origin of lanterns?

Lantern originated from a cage-shaped lamp in the Western Han Dynasty.

Lanterns appeared in the Western Han Dynasty more than 2 100 years ago. At that time, candles were used as the light source, and there was a protective cover outside, which was mainly used for people's lighting. Because most lanterns are round and mostly red, they mean reunion, happiness, prosperity and prosperity.

Lantern is a general term, which can be subdivided into palace lanterns, gauze lanterns, figure lanterns, landscape lanterns, flower and bird lanterns, dragon and phoenix lanterns and so on. Palace lanterns and gauze lanterns are the most famous. In China, lanterns are usually hung on traditional festivals, grand festivals, store opening, celebrations, weddings and other festive occasions. Lantern in China is a combination of painting, paper cutting, sewing and other techniques. In grand festivals, lanterns will appear as a symbol of celebration.