In contrast to the simplicity of the standard spherical lantern, the zoumadeng (lantern of "galloping horses") was designed during the Song dynasty (960-1279), an era of innovation that included developments in type printing, gunpowder and paper currency. The zoumadeng features a painted coat revolving like a merry-go- round making it a great toy for kids. Instead of being glued onto the main frame, the coat is fastened to a revolving frame suspended by a vertical shaft and pasted with paper vanes. The heated air from the burning candle propels the vanes to turn the shaft, which, in turn, drives the frame and the coat to revolve.

Nowadays, craftsmen equipped with modern techniques have created a great variety of dazzling lanterns. The traditional candle, for instance, has been replaced by electric lights to achieve special visual effects.

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