The dragon and tiger lantern, or longhu deng, continues to glow in Xiamen, Fujian Province, thanks to the dedication of three generations. For nearly fifty years, Zhuang Wenjia and his family have preserved this intricate craft, a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage.

Each lantern begins with a carefully woven bamboo frame, over which cotton paper is meticulously applied. The artist must paint directly onto the curved lantern surface, bringing the figures to life in one continuous, precise motion. Creating a pair of lanterns, each measuring 70 to 80 centimeters in diameter, takes a skilled artisan three full days of labor.

Traditionally painted in red, yellow, green, white and black, the lanterns are believed to ward off evil and attract good fortune. The dragon exudes power and movement, while the fierce tiger seems ready to pounce.