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The “flashlight” of the Edo period: a niche lamp for lighting candles
Recently, Japanese netizens discovered that a painting depicting the Edo period actually included lighting tools similar to modern flashlights, sparking discussions among netizens. Everyone doubted whether this was the painter’s mistake.
However, historians explain that this seemingly flashlight like object is actually a lighting tool from the Edo period, called the “niche lamp”. Its principle is similar to modern flashlights, but it fires candles instead of light bulbs inside. Let’s explore this magical ancient lighting tool together.
The origin and structure of niche lamps
Kan Deng (かんとう) was born in the Edo period and is a unique portable lighting tool. Although it looks similar to modern flashlights on the surface, its internal structure is very complex.
The design of the niche lamp not only concentrates the light, but also utilizes a balance system similar to a gyroscope, so that no matter how it is held, the candle always burns vertically and is not easily extinguished. This innovation could be considered a very advanced invention under the technological conditions at that time.
The uniqueness of niche lamps
The reason why niche lamps are considered magical is mainly because they use a balance ring design similar to modern gimbals and compasses. By rotating two rings, keep the candle burning vertically inside.
This design ensures that the niche lamp does not easily extinguish the candle during movement, enhancing its practicality. In the era without electric lights, niche lamps became an important tool for night patrols or tasks.
Discussion and resonance among netizens
Seeing the historical origins of niche lamps, many Japanese netizens have expressed that they have seen similar props in film and television works or comics. For example, some netizens have mentioned seeing this ancient lighting tool in period dramas such as the movie adaptation of “Ninja Turmoi Taro” and “Genpei Invading the Science and Technology”.
And some history enthusiasts also shared their introductions to niche lamps they read in comics or books, and marveled at the wisdom of ancient craftsmen.
The manga series’ The Secret of Ninjutsu and Magic ‘by Xueyan introduces this item. This prop really excites people to watch, and I’m curious how bright it really looks when photographed
The modern inspiration of niche lamps
Although niche lamps are a product of the Edo period, their precise construction and practicality are still breathtaking in modern times. Netizens are amazed that ancient people were able to design such efficient lighting tools without modern technology. Some people even shared their experience of using niche lamps during patrols, calling them a very stylish ancient lighting tool.
The niche lamp showcases the rich creativity and clever design thinking of ancient people. Although it looks like a modern flashlight, its reliance on candles to provide illumination is stunning.
In ancient societies with underdeveloped technology, this lighting tool was not only practical, but also reflected the wisdom of ancient craftsmen. Through these ancient inventions, modern people are able to better understand various aspects of people’s lives during historical periods, and have also sparked respect and admiration for past technologies.