This is a fruit basket made from Akebi vine.

Akebi vines are combined to form a shape that opens outward, as if gently spreading wide.

The maker is Kaoru Saito, who has long been working with vine and bark crafts in Yamagata.
She gathers Akebi herself, and this basket reflects her unique approach to the material.
With its open weaving, the basket has a light and uncluttered feel.
At first glance, it may seem as though it were simply woven from gathered branches,
yet the way each vine is joined reveals a distinctive finish that feels true to Kaoru’s work.

Although it appears simple, it incorporates distinctive weaving techniques,
giving it a form that feels uniquely Kaoru’s.
By adding decorations or flowers according to the season or your preference,
it can be enjoyed as part of your interior.
This is a one-of-a-kind piece.
We hope you will enjoy it in your own way.

Forms that captivate, born from the rich materials of Yamagata
Using a variety of mountain materials—Grapevine, walnut, Akebi, and Matatabi—
Kaoru Saito creates a succession of unique forms rarely seen elsewhere, as well as refined basketry that quietly draws the eye.
For many years, she has gone into the mountains herself to gather materials,
carrying out every step of the process from the very beginning.
In fact, Kaoru is also a highly skilled maker capable of producing finely woven Grapevine tote baskets of exceptional quality.
The accessories and ornaments she creates from multiple materials all carry a sense of considered beauty,
while also reflecting playfulness and thoughtful attention to the user.
She has a deep understanding of each material, and is also a user herself, incorporating baskets, accessories,
and small objects into her daily life.
Listening closely to the voices of those who use her work,
she continues to explore how pieces can be made more comfortable, beautiful, and enjoyable to use.
						

							

This is a fruit basket made from Akebi vine.

Akebi vines are combined to form a shape that opens outward, as if gently spreading wide.

The maker is Kaoru Saito, who has long been working with vine and bark crafts in Yamagata.
She gathers Akebi herself, and this basket reflects her unique approach to the material.
With its open weaving, the basket has a light and uncluttered feel.
At first glance, it may seem as though it were simply woven from gathered branches,
yet the way each vine is joined reveals a distinctive finish that feels true to Kaoru’s work.

Although it appears simple, it incorporates distinctive weaving techniques,
giving it a form that feels uniquely Kaoru’s.
By adding decorations or flowers according to the season or your preference,
it can be enjoyed as part of your interior.
This is a one-of-a-kind piece.
We hope you will enjoy it in your own way.

Forms that captivate, born from the rich materials of Yamagata
Using a variety of mountain materials—Grapevine, walnut, Akebi, and Matatabi—
Kaoru Saito creates a succession of unique forms rarely seen elsewhere, as well as refined basketry that quietly draws the eye.
For many years, she has gone into the mountains herself to gather materials,
carrying out every step of the process from the very beginning.
In fact, Kaoru is also a highly skilled maker capable of producing finely woven Grapevine tote baskets of exceptional quality.
The accessories and ornaments she creates from multiple materials all carry a sense of considered beauty,
while also reflecting playfulness and thoughtful attention to the user.
She has a deep understanding of each material, and is also a user herself, incorporating baskets, accessories,
and small objects into her daily life.
Listening closely to the voices of those who use her work,
she continues to explore how pieces can be made more comfortable, beautiful, and enjoyable to use.