“Kakukago” Basket with Handle and Legs / Madake Bamboo / Ibaraki-JPN 810208 茨城県/真竹 三本手角かご 足つき 中・大 2サイズ ルイ版
“Kakukago” Basket with Handle and Legs / Madake Bamboo / Ibaraki-JPN 810208 茨城県/真竹 三本手角かご 足つき 中・大 2サイズ ルイ版
This is a rectangular basket called kakukago, made from green madake bamboo with a handle and small legs. It comes in two sizes: medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This handled, legged kakukago has actually been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.
When we asked the craftsman if he could reproduce it, he replied, “If it’s all right for me to finish it in my own way, I’ll make it.” Thus, this long-awaited basket was realized.
This craftsman once made kakukago for professional use, so he kindly agreed to take on the project. For that reason, the finishing details differ slightly from those of the Sado-made basket. Rather than a direct reproduction, it may be closer to a “cover version,” as one might say in music.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thin, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width give it the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The fine bamboo strips are woven evenly in the gozame-ami pattern.The thick rim and the wide reinforcing bamboo strips running vertically are also distinctive—these are the fundamental features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.Several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner—this detail differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.The handle, made of three pieces of bamboo, is bound at the center with rattan.In the Sado-made version, the handle and rim were fastened with long nails,but since such suitable hardware is no longer available, the recreated version uses wire or copper to secure them.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although it was not possible to reproduce the original design exactly due to material availability, this basket, made by a craftsman who has made a living solely from bamboo work, is sure to be one you can rely on with complete confidence.
Two sizes are available—medium and large—which will be introduced in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.It can be used to hold slippers or other footwear,to keep frequently used tools close at hand, or to store vegetables, root crops, or even bottles of sauces and condiments.This is the large size.Compared to the medium size, it is noticeably larger and can hold a substantial amount.It is suitable for storing vegetables and fruits that do not need refrigeration, for pantry items, or even for use as a magazine rack.
With the handle, the basket can be carried easily and in balance, whether for cleaning or when you simply wish to move it to another place. A handled basket also brings a gentle sense of character and presence to the space it occupies.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
This basket design, once discontinued, has now found new life and will surely serve once again in daily living.
Please compare the sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
This is a rectangular basket called kakukago, made from green madake bamboo with a handle and small legs. It comes in two sizes: medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This handled, legged kakukago has actually been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.
When we asked the craftsman if he could reproduce it, he replied, “If it’s all right for me to finish it in my own way, I’ll make it.” Thus, this long-awaited basket was realized.
This craftsman once made kakukago for professional use, so he kindly agreed to take on the project. For that reason, the finishing details differ slightly from those of the Sado-made basket. Rather than a direct reproduction, it may be closer to a “cover version,” as one might say in music.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thin, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width give it the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The fine bamboo strips are woven evenly in the gozame-ami pattern.The thick rim and the wide reinforcing bamboo strips running vertically are also distinctive—these are the fundamental features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.Several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner—this detail differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.The handle, made of three pieces of bamboo, is bound at the center with rattan.In the Sado-made version, the handle and rim were fastened with long nails,but since such suitable hardware is no longer available, the recreated version uses wire or copper to secure them.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although it was not possible to reproduce the original design exactly due to material availability, this basket, made by a craftsman who has made a living solely from bamboo work, is sure to be one you can rely on with complete confidence.
Two sizes are available—medium and large—which will be introduced in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.It can be used to hold slippers or other footwear,to keep frequently used tools close at hand, or to store vegetables, root crops, or even bottles of sauces and condiments.This is the large size.Compared to the medium size, it is noticeably larger and can hold a substantial amount.It is suitable for storing vegetables and fruits that do not need refrigeration, for pantry items, or even for use as a magazine rack.
With the handle, the basket can be carried easily and in balance, whether for cleaning or when you simply wish to move it to another place. A handled basket also brings a gentle sense of character and presence to the space it occupies.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
This basket design, once discontinued, has now found new life and will surely serve once again in daily living.
Please compare the sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
This is a rectangular basket called kakukago, made from green madake bamboo with a handle and small legs. It comes in two sizes: medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This handled, legged kakukago has actually been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.
When we asked the craftsman if he could reproduce it, he replied, “If it’s all right for me to finish it in my own way, I’ll make it.” Thus, this long-awaited basket was realized.
This craftsman once made kakukago for professional use, so he kindly agreed to take on the project. For that reason, the finishing details differ slightly from those of the Sado-made basket. Rather than a direct reproduction, it may be closer to a “cover version,” as one might say in music.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thin, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width give it the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The fine bamboo strips are woven evenly in the gozame-ami pattern.The thick rim and the wide reinforcing bamboo strips running vertically are also distinctive—these are the fundamental features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.Several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner—this detail differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.The handle, made of three pieces of bamboo, is bound at the center with rattan.In the Sado-made version, the handle and rim were fastened with long nails,but since such suitable hardware is no longer available, the recreated version uses wire or copper to secure them.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although it was not possible to reproduce the original design exactly due to material availability, this basket, made by a craftsman who has made a living solely from bamboo work, is sure to be one you can rely on with complete confidence.
Two sizes are available—medium and large—which will be introduced in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.It can be used to hold slippers or other footwear,to keep frequently used tools close at hand, or to store vegetables, root crops, or even bottles of sauces and condiments.This is the large size.Compared to the medium size, it is noticeably larger and can hold a substantial amount.It is suitable for storing vegetables and fruits that do not need refrigeration, for pantry items, or even for use as a magazine rack.
With the handle, the basket can be carried easily and in balance, whether for cleaning or when you simply wish to move it to another place. A handled basket also brings a gentle sense of character and presence to the space it occupies.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
This basket design, once discontinued, has now found new life and will surely serve once again in daily living.
Please compare the sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
