Asano Paper Moon 5 | Shigeru Uchida | Washi Table Lantern

The Paper Moon 5 by Shigeru Uchida is the most generously proportioned near-sphere in Asano’s washi paper series — a tall, rounded form that balances vertical presence with a broad, enveloping glow. Designed in 1990 and handcrafted in Gifu where lantern-making traditions run over 90 years deep, it stands 11.25 inches tall and 12 inches in diameter. Its near-equal height and width give it the fullest, most balloon-like silhouette in the collection — a warm, glowing orb that anchors any room with quiet, sculptural presence.

Among the five Paper Moon silhouettes, Paper Moon 5 is the most volumetrically generous — larger than Paper Moon 2 in every dimension, and nearly as wide as Paper Moon 1. Where Paper Moon 3 reaches skyward and Paper Moon 4 spreads along a surface, Paper Moon 5 expands in all directions, creating the most immersive ambient glow in the series. Shigeru Uchida conceived the Paper Moon collection as five distinct meditations on proportion; Paper Moon 5 is the closest to a perfect sphere.

Each Paper Moon is hand-assembled in Gifu using traditional washi paper production methods. The E17 socket accepts incandescent bulbs up to 25 watts (not included) and pairs with LED equivalents for efficient, cooler operation. The 75-inch white PVC cord with inline switch provides placement flexibility. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth — the handmade rice paper shade requires no liquid contact. Designed for dry indoor environments only.

Designer: Shigeru Uchida (1943–2016) | Brand: Asano

Specifications

• Height: 11.25 inches
• Diameter: 12 inches
• Light Source: E17 socket, 25W max incandescent (bulb not included; LED compatible)
• Materials: Japanese washi rice paper shade, bamboo ribbing, steel wire armature, steel base plate
• Cord: 75-inch white PVC with inline on/off switch
• Production: Handmade in Gifu, Japan
• Environment: Indoor use only
• Care: Dust gently with soft, dry cloth; do not expose to liquids
• SKU: MD-AS-PM-05

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Paper Moon 5 compare to Paper Moon 1 in size?
A: They’re similar in scale. Paper Moon 5 is 11.25 inches tall and 12 inches wide; Paper Moon 1 is 9.25 inches tall and 12.5 inches wide. Paper Moon 5 is taller and slightly narrower, giving it a more spherical, balloon-like silhouette compared to Paper Moon 1’s flatter, wider profile.

Q: Where is Paper Moon 5 best displayed?
A: On a console table, dining sideboard, or the floor, where its generous 11.25-inch height can be fully appreciated. It also pairs beautifully with Paper Moon 3 (tall and slender) for contrasting proportions in a grouped display.

Q: Why is Paper Moon 5 priced at $160?
A: Paper Moon 4 and Paper Moon 5 carry a $160 price point; Paper Moon 1 through 3 are $149 each. Pricing reflects the manufacturer’s authorized retail pricing across all dealers.

Q: Can I use Paper Moon 5 outdoors?
A: No — like all Paper Moon designs, it is designed for dry indoor environments only. Humidity and moisture will damage the handmade washi paper shade.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.