Moroccan lanterns- recreate your own Moroccan oasis

Moroccan décor is really ‘in’ and ‘hot’ right now and every house-proud woman worth her salt is going berserk trying to incorporate some elements of it in her home. Moroccan tables, henna lamps and moroccan lanterns are really jazzing up the looks of homes giving them an exotic, breezy oriental feel. The easiest way to prep up your home with some touches of morocco is by buying a few of those beautiful moroccan lanterns. These lanterns are available in many sizes ranging from table top ones to floor lamps and to some really large ones which can be hung at the entrance of your home. You can either place candles inside them or have them wired for electric bulbs. 

Moroccan lanterns are distinctive from other lanterns in that although they are made of stained glass, they are deeply tinted and come with decorative textures. The stained glass is actually held by a metal framework in a filigree or lattice pattern which casts lovely, elaborate shadows and patterns in a room when the lantern is lit. This really imparts a special feel and ambience to the whole room. The henna lamps which are also a type of moroccan lanterns are made out of goat skins which have been stretched and they have some unique designs which have been hand painted. Some have also been colored with paprika and saffron dyes which makes for a rustic, earthy look in the room. 

Barred by their religion to portray human figures, moroccan craftsmen make lanterns in geometric shapes or plant or natural designs and symbols. According to ancient beliefs such designs also help in warding off the evil spirit and protecting the owner of the lanterns. The shapes and signs on the moroccan lanterns are symbolic; for instance, patterns of fish symbolize fertility, prosperity and water while that of a lizard means the owner of the lantern is a seeker of the sun. 

The space in the room is the foremost consideration when you buy moroccan lanterns. If the space is small, one large piece which is perhaps placed in a corner of the room will give a traditional, rustic look while a cluster of small moroccan lanterns spread out in a large space will impart a splendid glow in the room. 

In small areas, when using  a moroccan lantern try using a candle within it instead of a bulb for creating softer and more interesting carved shadows on the walls and ceiling of the room. If using henna lamps or sconces, try low wattage bulbs; this will impart a very romantic feel to the room. You can really dress up your barbeque area with some small, hanging moroccan lanterns; these will cast interesting shadows and elaborate patterns in your garden.

Moroccan lanterns are easy to maintain and can last a lifetime. Moroccan lanterns with their vivid patterns, exotic designs and colors will add a unique touch to your home décor and you can use them to recreate your own little corner of morocco.