TAKEAMI | B-0205

Japanese baskets result from meticulous time-honored techniques that a gilded master has to learn for over three decades to garner the recognition of his peers and the acute collectors. An aspiring bamboo weaver would spend three to five years observing his master at work before being allowed to even touch the bamboo. Only then does the disciple start a five to seven-year training focused on the meticulous bamboo cutting techniques, which he shall master before experimenting with the tedious techniques of bamboo weaving (‘Takeami’ in Japanese). The woven pieces embody the Japanese culture of appreciation for the time, dedication, and detailed simplicity – the country’s worshipping of meticulous work and its craftsmanship heritage. Strong, yet lightweight and flexible, bamboo is a challenging material to work with. Mastering the art involves not only weaving the bamboo but harvesting, processing, dyeing, and splicing it. A marvel of design and craftsmanship, Japanese bamboo masterpieces’ provenances date as far back as the 14th Century, the earlier works of art are unsigned, reflecting the noble humility expected from its creator. It’s only in the late 19th century that weaving masters began to sign their work with concern of establishing lineage as they passed on their knowledge to their apprentices.