Zhuge Liang (AD 181 - 234)
inventor of Chinese/Dream
Lanterns.
Portrait of Zhuge Liang
 Red
Violet  |
It is reputed that Dream Lanterns were invented by Zhuge Liang (AD 181 - 234), Chancellor of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period in China. He was a famous military advisor to Liu Bei, the founder of the Shu Han Dynasty (221-263/264 AD)
The Lanterns were invented as a military aid, used as, for example a method of communication on the battlefield as well as frightening the enemy with a 'light in the sky'.
Historically, Zhuge Liang was also known as Zhuge Kong Ming. He was nicknamed "The Hidden Dragon" due to the fact that people around him underestimated his capacity to achieve great and amazing things. Other translations of his nickname include "Crouching Dragon" and "Sleeping Dragon." He was a contemporary of Guan Yu, the patron saint of martial arts.
During the Shu Han Dynasty, Dream or Chinese Lanterns off the battle field, became a symbol of hope, good luck and good wishes. They are now traditionally released with a wish tied to or written on the balloon; bringing good luck & prosperity in the coming year. They are most popular during the Chinese New Year celebrations that see literally hundreds of thousands of Lanterns launched over a two week period.
Dream lanterns are spectacular, serene and great fun to have for any celebration including: Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Bonfire Night, New Year, Corporate events and at just about any celebration where there is a gathering of people.
|
