Antique Japanese Bamboo Hanakago (Flower Basket)
Double-gourd (hyōtan) form hanakago with bamboo insert and base · Shōwa period (mid 20th century).
This antique Japanese flower basket was sourced in Japan and selected for its craftsmanship, history, and quiet presence.
ABOUT THIS PIECE
A sculptural bamboo flower basket (hanakago 花籠) in the imaginative form of a double gourd (hyōtan 瓢箪). The tightly woven body rests on a carved bamboo base, while inside sits a thin bamboo insert designed to hold water and flowers securely. Its dramatic silhouette and craftsmanship reflect the creative spirit of the Shōwa era.
The gourd has long been an auspicious symbol in Japan, associated with good fortune, longevity, and protection. This piece carries not only a practical role in ikebana but also an evocative presence as a decorative object..
CULTURAL NOTE
In Japanese tradition, the hyōtan (瓢箪, gourd) is a symbol of good fortune, protection, and longevity. Its unique form, often associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi who used the gourd as his battle standard, made it a favored motif in arts and crafts.
Bonus Note:
The “double gourd” form comes from tying the fruit in the middle while it grows. Once dried, the waist naturally provided a strong point to attach cords or lids, a detail faithfully imitated in bamboo basketry.
DELIVERY
Delivery is included in the prices shown for Europe, the United States and Japan. For other destinations, please contact us for a delivered price.
Secure, reinforced packaging with tracking.
Note: Import duties or taxes may apply depending on the regulations of the destination country. For items over 100 years old, reduced import duties or taxes may apply in some countries. On request, we can provide a certificate stating the item’s estimated age to assist with customs clearance.
DETAILS & PRICE
SKU: A123
Price:
Europe: €540 — delivery to Europe included
United States: US$620 — delivery to the USA included
Japan: ¥52,000 — delivery within Japan included
Material: Bamboo with bamboo insert (thin varnish finish)
Period: Early to mid Shōwa era (c. 1930s–1960s)
Origin: Possibly Kyushu (Beppu)
Features:
Double-gourd silhouette; tightly woven body; carved bamboo base; no visible signature
Dimensions: W 34 × D 36 × H 50 cm (13.4 × 14.2 × 19.7 in)
Condition:
Good vintage condition, with light signs of age and warm surface tone.
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