Japanese Bamboo Basket, Washi Kago with Calligraphy, 1934

Characterful Japanese bamboo basket, lined inside and out with warm brown-dyed washi paper and hand-painted black calligraphy all around. The inscription includes the phrase “Shōwa 9, auspicious day in July”, which dates the basket to around 1934.

Dimensions: height 26 cm, diameter 37 cm.

The paper follows the structure of the underlying weave and creates a warm, organic texture. The calligraphy runs rhythmically around the basket and adds a subtle, graphic accent.

In a contemporary interior this is a wonderfully versatile piece. With a separate inner pot it becomes an original plant stand; on a table or in the kitchen it works beautifully as a basket for nuts, fruit or small everyday items.

A poetic, timeworn accent that brings both Japanese craftsmanship and understated calligraphic beauty into your home. In good vintage condition, with exactly the wabi-sabi character you are looking for.