This is a hand basket woven from Grapevine. It is made from Grapevine harvested in the Azuma mountain range, located between Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures.
Grapevine can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high.
Among the many kinds of vines used in basketry, Grapevine is especially valued for its exceptional durability. It can be used for many years, and one of its most distinctive qualities is that it gradually develops a rich luster from the natural oils of the hands.
This is the shallow type, with a wide shape and a low profile. Its proportions give it a somewhat modern feel.
Its wide shape makes it easy to put things in and take them out, while also helping keep them neatly organized.
Some Grapevine baskets are woven from wide, thick strips that retain the vine’s natural curves and texture. In contrast, this basket is made from exceptionally fine strips, carefully woven in the ajiro-ami technique to create a refined finish.Although the strips appear to be remarkably even in width and quality, the subtle variations in texture and the natural differences in color create a warmth and character that are uniquely its own.The rim is finished by wrapping Grapevine tightly around it without any gaps. Many baskets are finished with a rim wrapping technique in which the vine is wound in a single direction. This basket, however, is finished with a kaeshi-makibuchi, in which the vine is first wrapped in one direction, then wrapped again in the opposite direction, overlapping the first layer.The rim is finished with a double-wrapped edge, and the second wrapping is woven into the first, making it an exceptionally intricate construction. Viewed from above, the basket has a thin, delicate appearance, but this carefully crafted rim adds even greater strength to the overall structure.The handle is also carefully wrapped with Grapevine. It is neither too thin nor too thick, making it a comfortable size that fits naturally in the hand.The connection between the body of the basket and the rim is also firmly secured with a simple, well-crafted construction.This is the underside of the basket. It is also neatly woven in the ajiro-ami technique, with a clean and well-balanced finish.It is just the right size to hold a long wallet, a key case, a mobile phone, a small pouch, a handkerchief, and a small bottle of water.It is also compact enough to rest comfortably on your lap, making it a practical companion for traveling by train or bus.When the light falls on the basket, the finely woven pattern gently comes into view.Because each strip is split so finely and thinly, the basket itself does not feel especially heavy, even though it is woven from so many tightly packed strips. Even when filled with your belongings, it is likely to remain light and comfortable to carry.Its depth is not overly wide, giving the basket a clean and refined appearance.
The shallow shape makes it easy to reach inside and take things out. At the same time, because the contents are more visible from above, you may wish to cover the opening with a favorite handkerchief, bandana, or stole for a little privacy.
Changing the fabric or woven pattern to suit the occasion is also a lovely way to enjoy different combinations with the Grapevine basket.
Whether you take it with you on outings or use it at home as a storage basket, it is a piece meant to be enjoyed in everyday life. Rather than putting it away, keep it where you can see and use it every day. Over time, it will gradually develop a beautiful luster and become even more attractive.
The smooth texture makes it easy to carry in spring and summer, while its rich, deep color pairs beautifully with autumn and winter clothing. It is a basket that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
With proper care, it can be used for many years—long enough to be passed on to the next generation. We hope you will enjoy the way its character and appearance gradually change over time.
Handwoven Grapevine Baskets from Southern Yamagata
Yamagata Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan on the western side of the southern Tohoku region.
Its southern area, however, lies inland, surrounded by mountains rather than the sea. Towns have long been established in the mountain valleys, and in this landscape, where mountains cover most of the land, heavy snowfall in winter gave rise to a tradition of bark and vine craftsmanship as winter work for farming families.
In this region, materials gathered from the mountains—such as walnut bark, Grapevine, Akebi vine, and Matatabi vine— have long been used to make everyday tools and household items. Even today, there are people working to preserve and pass on these valuable skills.
Grapevine has long been valued as a material for basketry. The vines can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high. Its fibers are so strong that they were once used as rope, and among the many kinds of vines used in basketry— such as Akebi vine and Matatabi vine—it is especially prized for its exceptional durability.
The Grapevine baskets made in this region are woven from vines that have been carefully split into fine, thin strips, resulting in baskets that are both lightweight and remarkably durable. As they are used day after day, the natural oils from your hands gradually enrich the surface with a beautiful luster—a unique quality of Grapevine. We hope you will also enjoy the way it changes with age over the years.
This is a hand basket woven from Grapevine. It is made from Grapevine harvested in the Azuma mountain range, located between Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures.
Grapevine can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high.
Among the many kinds of vines used in basketry, Grapevine is especially valued for its exceptional durability. It can be used for many years, and one of its most distinctive qualities is that it gradually develops a rich luster from the natural oils of the hands.
This is the shallow type, with a wide shape and a low profile. Its proportions give it a somewhat modern feel.
Its wide shape makes it easy to put things in and take them out, while also helping keep them neatly organized.
Some Grapevine baskets are woven from wide, thick strips that retain the vine’s natural curves and texture. In contrast, this basket is made from exceptionally fine strips, carefully woven in the ajiro-ami technique to create a refined finish.Although the strips appear to be remarkably even in width and quality, the subtle variations in texture and the natural differences in color create a warmth and character that are uniquely its own.The rim is finished by wrapping Grapevine tightly around it without any gaps. Many baskets are finished with a rim wrapping technique in which the vine is wound in a single direction. This basket, however, is finished with a kaeshi-makibuchi, in which the vine is first wrapped in one direction, then wrapped again in the opposite direction, overlapping the first layer.The rim is finished with a double-wrapped edge, and the second wrapping is woven into the first, making it an exceptionally intricate construction. Viewed from above, the basket has a thin, delicate appearance, but this carefully crafted rim adds even greater strength to the overall structure.The handle is also carefully wrapped with Grapevine. It is neither too thin nor too thick, making it a comfortable size that fits naturally in the hand.The connection between the body of the basket and the rim is also firmly secured with a simple, well-crafted construction.This is the underside of the basket. It is also neatly woven in the ajiro-ami technique, with a clean and well-balanced finish.It is just the right size to hold a long wallet, a key case, a mobile phone, a small pouch, a handkerchief, and a small bottle of water.It is also compact enough to rest comfortably on your lap, making it a practical companion for traveling by train or bus.When the light falls on the basket, the finely woven pattern gently comes into view.Because each strip is split so finely and thinly, the basket itself does not feel especially heavy, even though it is woven from so many tightly packed strips. Even when filled with your belongings, it is likely to remain light and comfortable to carry.Its depth is not overly wide, giving the basket a clean and refined appearance.
The shallow shape makes it easy to reach inside and take things out. At the same time, because the contents are more visible from above, you may wish to cover the opening with a favorite handkerchief, bandana, or stole for a little privacy.
Changing the fabric or woven pattern to suit the occasion is also a lovely way to enjoy different combinations with the Grapevine basket.
Whether you take it with you on outings or use it at home as a storage basket, it is a piece meant to be enjoyed in everyday life. Rather than putting it away, keep it where you can see and use it every day. Over time, it will gradually develop a beautiful luster and become even more attractive.
The smooth texture makes it easy to carry in spring and summer, while its rich, deep color pairs beautifully with autumn and winter clothing. It is a basket that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
With proper care, it can be used for many years—long enough to be passed on to the next generation. We hope you will enjoy the way its character and appearance gradually change over time.
Handwoven Grapevine Baskets from Southern Yamagata
Yamagata Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan on the western side of the southern Tohoku region.
Its southern area, however, lies inland, surrounded by mountains rather than the sea. Towns have long been established in the mountain valleys, and in this landscape, where mountains cover most of the land, heavy snowfall in winter gave rise to a tradition of bark and vine craftsmanship as winter work for farming families.
In this region, materials gathered from the mountains—such as walnut bark, Grapevine, Akebi vine, and Matatabi vine— have long been used to make everyday tools and household items. Even today, there are people working to preserve and pass on these valuable skills.
Grapevine has long been valued as a material for basketry. The vines can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high. Its fibers are so strong that they were once used as rope, and among the many kinds of vines used in basketry— such as Akebi vine and Matatabi vine—it is especially prized for its exceptional durability.
The Grapevine baskets made in this region are woven from vines that have been carefully split into fine, thin strips, resulting in baskets that are both lightweight and remarkably durable. As they are used day after day, the natural oils from your hands gradually enrich the surface with a beautiful luster—a unique quality of Grapevine. We hope you will also enjoy the way it changes with age over the years.
This is a hand basket woven from Grapevine. It is made from Grapevine harvested in the Azuma mountain range, located between Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures.
Grapevine can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high.
Among the many kinds of vines used in basketry, Grapevine is especially valued for its exceptional durability. It can be used for many years, and one of its most distinctive qualities is that it gradually develops a rich luster from the natural oils of the hands.
This is the shallow type, with a wide shape and a low profile. Its proportions give it a somewhat modern feel.
Its wide shape makes it easy to put things in and take them out, while also helping keep them neatly organized.
Some Grapevine baskets are woven from wide, thick strips that retain the vine’s natural curves and texture. In contrast, this basket is made from exceptionally fine strips, carefully woven in the ajiro-ami technique to create a refined finish.Although the strips appear to be remarkably even in width and quality, the subtle variations in texture and the natural differences in color create a warmth and character that are uniquely its own.The rim is finished by wrapping Grapevine tightly around it without any gaps. Many baskets are finished with a rim wrapping technique in which the vine is wound in a single direction. This basket, however, is finished with a kaeshi-makibuchi, in which the vine is first wrapped in one direction, then wrapped again in the opposite direction, overlapping the first layer.The rim is finished with a double-wrapped edge, and the second wrapping is woven into the first, making it an exceptionally intricate construction. Viewed from above, the basket has a thin, delicate appearance, but this carefully crafted rim adds even greater strength to the overall structure.The handle is also carefully wrapped with Grapevine. It is neither too thin nor too thick, making it a comfortable size that fits naturally in the hand.The connection between the body of the basket and the rim is also firmly secured with a simple, well-crafted construction.This is the underside of the basket. It is also neatly woven in the ajiro-ami technique, with a clean and well-balanced finish.It is just the right size to hold a long wallet, a key case, a mobile phone, a small pouch, a handkerchief, and a small bottle of water.It is also compact enough to rest comfortably on your lap, making it a practical companion for traveling by train or bus.When the light falls on the basket, the finely woven pattern gently comes into view.Because each strip is split so finely and thinly, the basket itself does not feel especially heavy, even though it is woven from so many tightly packed strips. Even when filled with your belongings, it is likely to remain light and comfortable to carry.Its depth is not overly wide, giving the basket a clean and refined appearance.
The shallow shape makes it easy to reach inside and take things out. At the same time, because the contents are more visible from above, you may wish to cover the opening with a favorite handkerchief, bandana, or stole for a little privacy.
Changing the fabric or woven pattern to suit the occasion is also a lovely way to enjoy different combinations with the Grapevine basket.
Whether you take it with you on outings or use it at home as a storage basket, it is a piece meant to be enjoyed in everyday life. Rather than putting it away, keep it where you can see and use it every day. Over time, it will gradually develop a beautiful luster and become even more attractive.
The smooth texture makes it easy to carry in spring and summer, while its rich, deep color pairs beautifully with autumn and winter clothing. It is a basket that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
With proper care, it can be used for many years—long enough to be passed on to the next generation. We hope you will enjoy the way its character and appearance gradually change over time.
Handwoven Grapevine Baskets from Southern Yamagata
Yamagata Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan on the western side of the southern Tohoku region.
Its southern area, however, lies inland, surrounded by mountains rather than the sea. Towns have long been established in the mountain valleys, and in this landscape, where mountains cover most of the land, heavy snowfall in winter gave rise to a tradition of bark and vine craftsmanship as winter work for farming families.
In this region, materials gathered from the mountains—such as walnut bark, Grapevine, Akebi vine, and Matatabi vine— have long been used to make everyday tools and household items. Even today, there are people working to preserve and pass on these valuable skills.
Grapevine has long been valued as a material for basketry. The vines can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high. Its fibers are so strong that they were once used as rope, and among the many kinds of vines used in basketry— such as Akebi vine and Matatabi vine—it is especially prized for its exceptional durability.
The Grapevine baskets made in this region are woven from vines that have been carefully split into fine, thin strips, resulting in baskets that are both lightweight and remarkably durable. As they are used day after day, the natural oils from your hands gradually enrich the surface with a beautiful luster—a unique quality of Grapevine. We hope you will also enjoy the way it changes with age over the years.
