Hexagonal hanging flower basket

Dateearly 20th century

PeriodMeiji (1868–1912) or Taishō period (1912–1926)

MediumBamboo and rattan

DimensionsOverall (Basket): 6 7/8 × 7 3/16 × 6 7/8 in. (17.5 × 18.3 × 17.5 cm)
Overall (Basket with hanger): 25 3/8 × 7 3/16 × 6 7/8 in. (64.5 × 18.3 × 17.5 cm)
Overall (Interior Liner): 5 5/16 × 2 3/4 × 2 9/16 in. (13.5 × 7 × 6.5 cm)
Overall (Storage Box): 8 7/16 × 8 1/4 × 8 1/4 in. (21.5 × 21 × 21 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts

Credit LineGift of Dr. Ann and Dr. Robert Walzer, 2018

Object numberSN11628.1

Flexible, strong, light, and abundant, bamboo has been used for all kinds of utilitarian, ritual, and decorative objects in East Asia for thousands of years. During the Edo period (1615–1868), Japan’s cultural elite collected bamboo baskets for displaying flowers in the tea room. The round, flat-bottomed basket emulates the intricate style of baskets imported from China, which were particularly prized by early connoisseurs. The rustic appearance of the tall basket evokes utilitarian objects used by farmers and fishermen. Shimamura Hakuhōsai’s hanging basket playfully takes the form of a lantern.

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