Japanese Rattan Ikebana Basket

A pale golden frame of poles, scooped like a tall pipe organ.

This ikebana basket is from Japan, and dates to the 20th century. It is bamboo & rattan. Baskets of bamboo and rattan are common containers in ikebana, since their natural textures and warm colors suit seasonal flowers and branches. A tall rectangular form with a straight upper frame and a front of vertical poles cut to a deep curve. Light, honey-colored lashings hold them in rows. The color is a clear yellow-gold, with darker nodes along each pole. It is 16.75 inches high and 8 in diameter.

Music in the shape, silence in the practice.