The class of Garden Lanterns previously referred to under the term of Legged Lanterns are also known by the distinguishing name of "Snow-scene" Lanterns (Yukimi-doro), on account of the important part they assume during snow time. They are very wide in proportion to their height and are invariably covered by a large umbrella-shaped roof or cap, forming a broad surface to receive snow. The Japanese regard snow scenery as one of the floral displays of the year, and a snow- clad garden is always looked upon with great pleasure. These "Snow-scene" Lanterns are mostly overshadowed by the crooked branch of some evergreen, and form, together with the surrounding foliage, a most picturesque group after a fall of snow.
They have no standard, but their spherical, square, or octagonal heads are supported upon arched legs, crowned with broad mushroom-shaped coverings, resembling the large rush hats worn by the farmers, and surmounted by a bud-shaped ball. The different varieties are distinguished by the number of legs, the principal being:� "The Three-legged Shape" (Mitsuashi-gata),�sometimes called the "Yedo Shape," because most common in the Yedo (Tokio) district,�has an hexagonal body with wide umbrella-like roof supported on three curved legs, like quadrants. "The Four-legged Shape" (Yotsuashi-gata),�common in Osaka and Kioto, very similar to the above, but having four legs instead of three, and covered with a roof of hexagonal plan and double curve. "The Six-legged Shape" (Mutsuashi-gata),�having six curved legs, an hexagonal head, and umbrella-shaped roof.
