Hurricane garden lights rust elegantly
Does anyone know who invented the hurricane lantern – or when it was invented? It must have been a while ago. Perhaps they were used in the first world war? I used to associate them with arm camps but now I associate them with gardens. The design if elegant and effective. As the name implies they can withstand strong winds. And new or old, they look good in gardens.
(image courtesy Thijs Hooiveld)
Buddhist Oil Lights
Buddhist oil lights are beautiful, beautifully simple and beautifully pure.
Westerners tend to light their gardens with electrical contraptions. This is sensible if the lighting is for everyday use (eg along a path) but unnecessary if the lighting is for an occasional event.
For parties, you can make a Buddhist-type oil lamp with a tumbler glass, a wick of twisted cotton wool and a supply of cooking oil.
Buddhists use oil lights in their celebration of Vesak Day. It is a special day to remember the life, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
(image courtesy Suanie)
