FEAST OF LANTERNS, in China, is a celebrated feast held on the 15th day of the first month; so called from the infinite number of lanterns hung out of the houses and streets; which, it is said, is no less than two hundred millions. On this day are exposed lanterns of all prices, whereof some are said to cost 2000 crowns. Some of their grandees retrench somewhat every day out of their table, out of their dress, equipage, &c. to appear the more magnificent in lanterns. They are adorned with gilding, sculpture, painting, japanning, &c. And as to their size, it is extravagant; some being from 25 to 30 feet diameter: they represent halls and chambers, and two or three such machines together would make handsome houses; so that in China they are able to eat, lodge, receive visits, have balls, and act plays in a lantern. To illumine them, they should have bonfires; but as that would be inconvenient, they content themselves with lighting.
Lantern lighting up in them an infinite number of torches or lamps, which at a distance have a beautiful effect. Laocoon In these they exhibit various kinds of flows, to divert the people. Besides these enormous lanterns, there is a multitude of others smaller, which usually consist of six faces or lights, each about four feet high, and one and a half broad, framed in wood finely gilt and adorned; over these they stretch a fine transparent silk, curiously painted with flowers, trees, and sometimes human figures: the painting is very extraordinary, and the colours extremely bright; and when the torches are lighted, they appear highly beautiful and surprising.