{"product_id":"721103-1","title":"Basket Bag “Tapered” 33cm \/ Grapevine \/ Fukushima-JPN 721103-1","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-57.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58733\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58734 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a hand basket woven from Grapevine.\u003cbr\u003eIt is made from Grapevine harvested in Fukushima Prefecture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrapevine can only be harvested during a very short period in June, when the humidity is high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmong the many kinds of vines used in basketry, Grapevine is especially valued for its exceptional durability.\u003cbr\u003eIt 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 your hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-19.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58735 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis basket is woven in the standard ajiro-ami technique.\u003cbr\u003eIts sides taper gently toward the opening, so we named it “Tapered.”\u003cbr\u003eIn the Tapered series, this size measures approximately 33 cm (12.99″) across the opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe craftsperson who makes this basket moved from Yamanashi Prefecture, their hometown, to Oku-Aizu to learn the craft of Grapevine basket weaving.\u003cbr\u003eThrough exchanges with local people and by studying under a master craftsperson, they refined their skills. Today, they continue to create mainly Grapevine basket bags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe baskets made by this craftsperson are characterized by substantial strips and softly rounded shapes, giving them a gentle appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause every Grapevine vine is different, each one is carefully selected and prepared into strips that best suit its individual characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-77.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58737\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58738\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-18.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58739\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt is woven from finely prepared strips, with each row of the ajiro-ami pattern carefully woven by hand. This basket in particular is woven from Grapevine strips prepared to a width of about 5 mm (0.20″).\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-14-2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-14-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58742\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAlthough 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.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-20.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-20.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58743\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe rim is wrapped with Grapevine so tightly that there are no gaps, with each vine overlapping the next.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-21.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-21.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58744\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe handles are also woven from Grapevine. They are carefully finished with a slim profile that fits comfortably in the hand.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-19-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58746\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe woven handles are joined to the basket in a way that allows the braided pattern to continue seamlessly, creating a sturdy and reassuring finish.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-16-1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-16-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58748\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eBecause the inside of the basket is also carefully finished, it does not have a fabric lining. Depending on what you carry, we also recommend using a pouch or a drawstring bag inside.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-51.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-51.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58749\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt is spacious enough to comfortably hold a long wallet, a key case, a mobile phone, a small pouch, a handkerchief, and a water bottle. There is also enough room for a folding umbrella and an extra layer.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-50.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-50.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58750\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe basket has a softly rounded silhouette. Its finely woven pattern, created from carefully prepared strips, gives it a refined look.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-75.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58751\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts character makes it equally suited to everyday use and to dressed-up occasions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Grapevine basket bag woven one finely prepared strip at a time with assured skill, conveying an unpretentious beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of its simple weaving pattern,\u003cbr\u003ewe feel that the luster and character that develop with use stand out all the more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-56.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58753\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe smooth texture makes it easy to carry in spring and summer,\u003cbr\u003ewhile its rich, deep color pairs beautifully with autumn and winter clothing.\u003cbr\u003eIt is a basket that can be enjoyed throughout the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith proper care, it can be used for many years—long enough to be passed on to the next generation.\u003cbr\u003eWe hope you will enjoy the way it gradually changes over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime20260807-76.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58752\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHandwoven Grapevine Basket Bags from Oku-Aizu, Fukushima\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOku-Aizu, nestled among the mountains in western Fukushima Prefecture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown as one of Japan’s snowiest regions, Oku-Aizu is covered in deep snow throughout the winter.\u003cbr\u003eLife during the long winter has fostered a rich tradition of craftsmanship that continues to this day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn recent years, this culture has come to be appreciated anew,\u003cbr\u003eand efforts involving the wider community to pass on these skills and make them more widely known have also been growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally, Grapevine baskets were used as tools for mountain work, valued for their durability.\u003cbr\u003eThey were used to carry harvested crops and to hold tools such as knives and whetstones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrapevine can only be harvested in limited areas deep in the mountains, and only for about two weeks during the humid season in June.\u003cbr\u003eIts fibers are so strong that they were once used as rope,\u003cbr\u003eand baskets woven from vines harvested during this brief period are said to last for 50 or even 100 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Grapevine basket bags made in this region are carefully woven one by one, preserving the vine’s natural character and thickness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you continue to use it day after day, the natural oils from your hands gradually become part of the basket,\u003cbr\u003ebringing out the beautiful luster that is unique to Grapevine.\u003cbr\u003eWe hope you will also enjoy the way it changes over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis item ships from Japan.\u003cbr\u003eAs the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.\u003cbr\u003eThese costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.\u003cbr\u003ePlease check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1basketry","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47700613857429,"sku":"721103-1","price":176000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/9799\/0549\/files\/ime2026080774.jpg?v=1786262294","url":"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/721103-1","provider":"市川籠店 | 1basketry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}