FIREFLY LANTERN
The ancient Chinese used to create lamps by trapping fireflies in semi-transparent containers, the bioluminescent bugs would make them glow and since then the lantern has played a central part in Chinese culture. The need for light is as evident today as it was then: once the sun sets on Dashilar and the bustling everyday activities come to an end, darkness falls like a veil over the hutongs. The lack of public lighting and the reluctance to spend money on outdated, high consuming electricity makes these areas close to pitch black at night.
 
The Firefly Lantern, the result of a successful collaboration between Swedish designer Alexander Åhnebrink, Dashilar Platform and highly skilled local craftsman Zhang Gouging of Tian Pai Shoes Art, combines modern technology and traditional craftsmanship. The lantern features a hand blown glass softly diffusing a low energy LED light source and a hand sewn leather strap protecting the glass and making it possible to carry and hang wherever suitable. The lantern is rechargeable both by USB cable as well as by solar power, taking advantage of the Beijing desert-like climate. Working both as a portable torch as well as a multi-use lamp for in or out doors, the Firefly lantern solves most users’ lighting needs.
 
Dashilar Living History and Cultural Preservation area, located southwest of Tiananmen Square near Qianmen Gate, is a special zone within Beijing’s old city
 
Organizer: Dashilar Platform
Curator: Alexander Åhnebrink
Designers: Alexander Åhnebrink
Date: 9.23-10.7
Address: YMZ 49#
Tiananmen Square
Dongcheng, Beijing
China

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