Toro (Lantern): Oribe Guidepost, 48-inches

Oribe was the leading tea master after Sen No Rikyu (the father of the modern tea ceremony, 1640Õs). He designed this lantern to represent the influence of Christianity as it was introduced into Japan. It supposedly represents a cross and the ÒmonkÓ could represent Jesus or some even think Mary. Some people put the symbol and monk to the back so it is not apparent. This is because originally the Japanese who used it were persecuted for their new found beliefs. So says the legend. Square opening in front and in back. Sun & crescent moon opening on sides. Sawn flat bottom to be set on concrete paver or pad just below grade eliminates the need to bury this post and lose a lot of height! 48-inches tall.