Antique Japanese Bamboo Flower Basket (Hanakago 花籠)

A finely crafted Taishō-era bamboo flower basket (hanakago 花籠) signed Kikusen (菊仙) by its user. The broad, squared body rises gracefully to a tall rectangular handle, its structure reinforced with mixed open slats and tighter weaving that give both rhythm and strength. The workmanship reflects the refined basketry traditions of Beppu in Kyushu.

Pieces like this were highly valued for tea-room display and ikebana, where they bridged the worlds of functional craft and fine art. This basket’s form shows balance and dignity, while the surface bears the mellow tone of a century of age.

Hanakago (花籠) baskets are central to ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, where the container is considered as important as the flowers themselves. In Taishō and early Shōwa periods, finely woven baskets reflected both artistry and function, often displayed in the tokonoma alcove.

Bonus Note:
Beppu, on Kyushu island, became one of Japan’s most renowned bamboo craft centers during this era, producing elegant and practical designs sought after by collectors and tea practitioners. Handwritten inscriptions like the one under this basket are often user’s marks rather than maker’s signatures.

• SKU: A114

• Material: Bamboo

• Period: Taishō era (c. 1912–1926)

• Origin: Beppu, Kyushu, Japan

• Features: Square body with tall rectangular handle; mixed slat + plaited weave; signed 菊仙 (Kikusen saku)

• Dimensions: W 26 × D 21 × H 55 cm (10.2 × 8.3 × 21.7 in)

• Condition: Good antique condition with natural wear and warm patina consistent with age

Free worldwide shipping to most destinations where rates are comparable to the EU, UK, and US.
For regions with higher costs, please contact us for a shipping quote.
Secure, reinforced packaging.

Note: Import duties or taxes may apply depending on the regulations of the destination country. For items over 100 years old, many countries allow reduced or tax-free import. On request, we can provide a certificate of authenticity stating the item’s age to assist with customs clearance.