Akebi Vine Basket

A beautifully weathered handwoven basket made from wild Akebi/Akebia vine woven into a fluid, soft-bodied form that yields gently to the touch. Dating to the Taisho to early Showa era (circa 1920s–1950s), this particularly singular piece departs from rigid frame basketry, existing instead as a quiet, pliable pocket that shifts naturally with its contents. Having spent much of its past life suspended as an evocative wall-hanging vessel, it carries an immense sculptural presence, bringing the unhurried spirit of wabi-sabi into the modern space.

Materials
Hand-woven from flexible wild mountain vine and root fibers using an open, honest diamond-lattice technique. The opening is defined by a substantial, heavy-gauge vine bundle, thoughtfully wrapped and reinforced to ground its organic shape. It retains its authentic, hand-twisted hemp utility cords securely knotted around the rim loops, providing a natural means for wall display. The unvarnished wild fibres showcase a beautifully weathered, matte-umber patina, showing soft shifts into deeply oxidised charcoal-brown tones earned through decades of quiet domestic use.

Dimensions - TAKEN STOOD ON BASE
HEIGHT: 40CM
WIDTH: 52CM
DEPTH: 23CM
OPENING DIAMETER: 47.5CM X 19CM 

Condition & Antique Character
As an antique object, this piece has lived a previous life and shows the gentle marks of time and utility. Please note that this vessel has a soft, non-rigid construction and does not stand independently without internal support or filling. Minor fibre fraying, small breaks to individual lattice strands, loose hemp cord ends, and an expected, natural distortion to the weave from long-term hanging display are to be expected. Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

It also shows evidence of historical woodworm damage. The bamboo structures remain sound, but these pieces should be treated as decorative antiques. Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.