Vintage Japanese Woven Bamboo Hanakago Flower Basket, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-876

Vintage Japanese Woven Bamboo Hanakago Flower Basket, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-876

A masterwork of sculptural bamboo weaving -- tall, dark, and commanding, with a signed wood storage box.

A hanakago is a traditional Japanese flower basket used in ikebana, the classical Japanese art of floral arrangement. Crafted by skilled artisans known as basket weavers (kagoshi), these pieces were as much sculptures as they were functional vessels. This example is constructed from tightly woven flat bamboo strips in a rich, deep espresso-brown -- the result of natural aging and a lacquer-like smoke or oil finish applied during the weaving process. The body features a bold interlocking twill-weave pattern on the lower portion, transitioning into densely wound horizontal coils at the neck that create a dramatic collar effect. Braided side handles and a small bamboo loop accent at the front add refined structural detail. The basket retains its original fitted wood storage box, inscribed with the maker's name and seal in brush calligraphy -- a hallmark of a named, collectible artisan piece. This is a fine example of vintage Japanese craft at its most expressive.

In a modern home, this hanakago makes a striking living room accent -- display it on a shelf or sideboard with a single sculptural branch or dried stem for an effortless wabi-sabi aesthetic. Its tall, cylindrical silhouette and deep brown tones also work beautifully as a standalone decorative object in Japandi-style interiors, where the natural texture of woven bamboo brings warmth alongside minimal furniture. It makes a truly unique housewarming gift or a gift for collectors of Japanese vintage basketry who appreciate pieces with documented provenance. Whether used for ikebana or displayed empty, it brings a quiet, contemplative beauty to any space.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Woven bamboo strips, dark lacquered or smoked finish; fitted wood storage box (likely sugi/cedar)
• Use: Ikebana flower basket (hanakago) -- designed to hold a floral liner and flower arrangement
• Modern Use: Ikebana display vessel or dried botanical arrangement; sculptural living room or entryway accent; unique gift for collectors of Japanese bamboo craft
• Features: Two-zone construction -- interlocking twill-weave body below, densely coiled horizontal-wrap neck above; braided side handles; small decorative bamboo loop on the front face; fitted wood box with brush-inscribed maker's signature and red seal stamp
• Dimensions: 4"W x 2"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare signed example of vintage Japanese bamboo craft -- a living sculpture that brings the timeless wabi-sabi aesthetic into any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.