Vintage Japanese Ikebana Flower Basket, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-813

Japanese Ikebana Hanakago Flower Basket | Vintage Living Room Accent & Decorative Vase, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-813

A sculptural bamboo ikebana basket of remarkable craftsmanship -- its bulbous woven body and soaring arched handle make it as much a work of art as a vessel for flowers.

A hanakago is a traditional Japanese flower basket used in the practice of ikebana, the centuries-old art of flower arranging. Unlike simple utilitarian containers, a fine hanakago is itself considered a craft object -- the basket's form, color, and weave pattern are chosen to complement and elevate the floral arrangement placed within it. This example displays exceptional skill: wide, flat bamboo strips are woven in a bold, irregular overlapping pattern across a full rounded body, creating a deliberately organic silhouette reminiscent of a budding flower or ripened gourd. The deeply lacquered finish moves between rich burnt sienna and near-black, a patina that speaks to decades of careful use and handling. The tall arched handle is braided from twisted bamboo strips, adding structural elegance and visual height. A small coiled foot ring stabilizes the base, and the open weave of the upper body reveals an inner scaffold of tighter basketry -- a hallmark of handcrafted Japanese antique basketwork from the Early Showa period.

In a modern home, this vintage ikebana basket functions beautifully as a standalone decorative accent -- no flowers required. Display it on a console table, sideboard, or fireplace mantel as a living room accent where its sculptural silhouette draws the eye. Fill it with dried botanicals, pampas grass, or branches for a wabi-sabi aesthetic that suits Japandi style interiors effortlessly. It also makes a striking entryway accent piece placed on a low bench or shelf alongside other natural-material objects. With its dramatic proportions and deep, aged coloration, it is a unique housewarming gift for collectors of Japanese craft or anyone who appreciates handmade textile art and natural-material design.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Smoked and lacquered bamboo strips
• Use: Ikebana flower arranging basket (hanakago)
• Modern Use: Living room decorative accent; dried floral or botanical display; entryway or console table centerpiece
• Features: Bulbous rounded body with bold irregular overlapping weave; tall arched braided handle; tight inner basket structure visible through open upper weave; small coiled foot ring base; deep two-tone lacquer finish in burnt sienna and near-black
• Dimensions: 8"W x 9"D x18"H
• Condition: Excellent

A masterpiece of vintage Japanese craft -- this hanakago ikebana basket brings the wabi-sabi aesthetic and timeless beauty of handwoven bamboo artistry 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 and antique 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.