Vintage Japanese Lacquered Bamboo Kago Carrying Basket, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0190-2

Vintage Japanese Lacquered Bamboo Kago Carrying Basket, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0190-2

A striking two-tone lacquered bamboo carrying basket with open hexagonal weave and arched handle -- includes original storage box.

A kago is a traditional Japanese woven basket used for carrying or presenting offerings, fruit, and seasonal goods. This handcrafted vintage Japanese kago is distinguished by its bold two-tone finish -- black lacquer-like outer strips laid over deep crimson underlays -- which flash warmly through the open hexagonal lattice as light catches the weave from different angles. The body is worked in a precise interlocking pattern throughout, with neatly wrapped rim edges and small raised foot tabs at the base that protect both basket and surface. The single arched handle is formed from a flat bamboo strip finished in glossy black, its apex bound with tightly coiled strips where it meets the rim -- a detail that speaks to the care of a practiced craftsperson. The accompanying decorative storage box, covered in grey-blue washi paper with a botanical print, suggests this piece was kept and treasured as a quality household or gift item from the early postwar Showa period.

Today this vintage Japanese bamboo basket translates beautifully into modern interiors. Use it as a countertop fruit bowl or bread basket in a kitchen styled with Japandi or wabi-sabi aesthetic, where its dramatic dark lacquer finish becomes a sculptural focal point rather than mere utility. Placed on a sideboard or coffee table, it works equally well as a living room accent -- holding dried botanicals, pine cones, or rolled linen napkins. Its compact footprint and bold graphic weave also make it a unique housewarming gift for collectors or Japanophiles who appreciate handcrafted Japanese craft with genuine provenance.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Bamboo strips with high-gloss lacquer-like coating in black over crimson red
• Use: Carrying or presenting fruit, offerings, or gifts; decorative household basket
• Modern Use: Countertop fruit bowl or bread basket; living room accent with dried botanicals; decorative entryway display piece
• Features: Open hexagonal lattice weave throughout body; two-tone black and deep red coloring; arched flat-strip handle with wrapped apex joints; wrapped rim edge; small raised foot tabs at base; includes original washi-covered storage box
• Dimensions: 9"W x 8"D x 8"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully preserved piece of vintage Japanese craft -- handwoven with quiet precision and rich two-tone drama that brings warmth and artisan character to any modern home.

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.