Description
Antique Japanese finely woven ikebana basket with tall handle. Tightly woven with very thin strips of split bamboo and intricate knot work. Formal, even shape. Signed by the artist. “Made by Waichisai” 和一斎造之 Waichisai kore o tsukuru
First Generation Modern Japanese Bamboo Artist: Wada Waichisai I (1851–1904)
Known as a master of the bunjin (literati) style basket, Waichisai I was highly acclaimed by his contemporaries for his technical skills. In 1881, at the age of 30, he won an award at the second Domestic Industrial Exhibition, establishing him as a peer and rival of Shokosai I. In 1891, with the founding of the Osaka division of the Japan Art Association, Ichimatsu and Shokosai I were named master-instructors in bamboo art. In 1894, the chief priest of Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine gifted the Emperor with an impressive offering tray by Wada. A former regent, Prince Konoe Tadahiro, was so impressed by Ichimatsu’s tray that he bestowed on him the artist’s name “Waichisai” (first in Japan). A year later, he won another award at the fourth Domestic Industrial Exhibition.
Age: Meiji Period (1868-1912)
Dimensions: 19 3/4″ high x 10″ wide x 9″ deep
