Pre-1984 Production.

Handcrafted by Ozeki & Co. Ltd. in Gifu, Japan, this later Akari model features a washi paper shade with bamboo ribbing supported by an internal metal frame. The shade bears Isamu Noguchi’s signature alongside the sun and moon ideogram, with the original Gemini G.E.L label present on the fitting.

Introduced in the mid-1980s, this model belongs to one of the later chapters of Noguchi’s celebrated Akari light sculptures - works that sought to merge sculpture, design, and illumination into a single poetic form. During this period, Gemini G.E.L. was among the few distributors authorized to produce and market Akari sculptures before rights were later consolidated under The Noguchi Museum.

Gemini G.E.L presented the Akari series explicitly as “light sculptures,” reflecting Noguchi’s long-held belief that light itself could function as a sculptural medium. Alongside these paper forms, Noguchi also produced a series of galvanized steel editions for Gemini during the 1980s, further expanding the sculptural language of the Akari body of work.

Our example remains true to both the intended delicacy and material nature of Noguchi’s Akari sculptures. The washi paper shade shows visible signs of age and use, including small pinholes, micro tears throughout, and several larger tears measuring approximately 1–2 inches near joints and corners.

Despite these imperfections, the piece retains a remarkably warm and atmospheric presence when illuminated, highlighting the fragile beauty central to the Akari series itself. The structure presents well overall and offers an opportunity to acquire a rare mid-1980s Gemini G.E.L edition at a more accessible level relative to comparable examples from the same period. The internal frame remains in near-perfect condition, complete with original rubber feet and the Gemini G.E.L label affixed to the socket assembly.

24" L  |  24" W  |  58" H