Because Rian will ask...

Photo by Vermillion Asian Arts, Carmel CA

Whilst in California, my uncle and I made time to drop by my very favorite shop in the world: Vermillion Asian Arts in Carmel. Vermillion is run by two lovely men, Robert and Michael. Not only do they share my love of everything Japanese, but they are also incredibly warm and friendly. Even though their shop is filled with exquisite and expensive treasures, I always feel encouraged to browse and discover, touch and covet. And they know about what they are selling, unlike so many other places these days.

These lamps came out of a Japanese ryokan. The shades are paper; the legs fold up like a camera tripod. As they had to be electrified, I imagine they originally held candles. If I remember correctly, they are circa 1920. (I might be wrong on that.)

When I was in the shop, they had 2 on display which were already spoken for. More had been promised, but t'was uncertain if they would actually materialize.

But, happily, I got the email last night that they had indeed materialized, and they remembered that I coveted two.

Wonderful.

And I'm high on cold medication, so if none this makes any sense at all, blame Dr. Lorimer.

-----

Footnote: IF you ever visit Japan, do try to stay in a ryokan. Many ryokans are located in beautiful, older buildings, and the best ones give you a real taste of Japanese culture and history, from shoji doors, tatami mats and a private garden off your room, to unrolling your futon in the evening, bringing meals to your room, and drawing your nightly bath. Read more here.