Wild Mountain Grape Bark

Dating to the early twentieth century, this foraging basket is woven from the bark of wild mountain grape (yamabudō), a durable plant material traditionally used for basketry in Japan. Strips of the dark brown bark are worked into alternating bands of dense weave and open twining, creating a structure that combines strength with flexibility while reducing the overall weight of the basket.

The basket’s rectangular form and open construction are well suited to its utilitarian purpose. Used for foraging, it could accommodate gathered plants and other materials while allowing air to circulate through the open sections of the weave.

Variations in the width, color, and texture of the bark remain visible across the surface, while areas of wear attest to the basket’s use. Rather than concealing the character of the material, its construction emphasizes the fibrous, irregular qualities of the wild mountain grape bark.