Backpack-shaped flower basket c. early 20th century

This Backpack-shaped flower basket was made by Tanabe Chikuunsai, sometime between 1877 and 1937, using bamboo. There’s something so grounded about the process of making something by hand. I love how you can see the labour involved, like looking at brushstrokes in a painting. Here, the artist has meticulously woven together strips of bamboo, each one carefully placed to create a complex, textured surface. The dark, glossy finish of the bamboo gives the basket a sense of depth and richness. Look closely, and you'll see the subtle variations in color and tone, like veins running through wood. The handle is particularly beautiful, with its smooth, curving lines and intricate details. It's almost like a sculptural element, adding a touch of elegance to the piece. This reminds me of Eva Hesse's rope sculptures, where she used simple materials to create complex and organic forms. It’s like a conversation across time and cultures. Art is always responding to art, each piece building on what came before.