As we combed through Artists’ Handmade Houses, the prize in our current book giveaway, we noticed an interesting theme running through the houses of many of the 13 artists featured. They often used the simple rice paper globe ceiling lights pioneered in the 50’s by Isamu Noguchi: an electrical wire hung from the ceiling from which hung a bulb surrounded by a translucent rice paper shade. Paolo Soleri, Sam Maloof, Wharton Esherick, Ruth, and Robert Hatch all used them to great effect: they lend a pleasing sculptural element to a room while casting a lovely light.

George Nakashima had them all over the house. We’re wondering if he made this clever wall light by cutting a globe in half and affixing it to the wall.

To our eye several of the genuine, pricey Noguchi Akari Lights series (which you can buy here) …

…are almost identical to these inexpensive Japanese paper lanterns available from Dekorfine (which come in many shapes and sizes)…

Our giveaway contest for Artists’ Handmade Houses ends tonight. To enter, click here.