Hakusanzanroku Basketry Kotsura Craft Matatabi

Basket weaving, a labor-intensive handicraft, is becoming rare due to an aging population of artisans.
The basketry from the Hakusansanroku region is a traditional folk craft made by weaving *matatabi* vines instead of bamboo. It is called Kotsura-zaiku, and its name is said to originate from the local dialect's description of *matatabi* vines tangling around one's legs in the mountains as kotsura nikui (hateful). Baskets and strainers woven from *matatabi*, which is flexible, strong, and water-resistant, are durable and develop a deep amber color with age, allowing you to enjoy their changing texture over time.
The *matatabi* used is harvested on cold, sleeting days. The bark and core are removed, the vine is split into four, thinly shaved, dried, and then rehydrated before being woven. This is a rare and extremely labor-intensive handicraft.
Originally used for washing rice and draining water, these items are so durable that they were said to last over 100 years, much to the consternation of the artisans.
The shaved *matatabi* is white, and the mesh is beautiful.
New, unused. Depth is approximately 7cm (amateur measurement).
*As this is a unique, handmade item made from natural materials, please refrain from purchasing if you are sensitive to such details.
*Price is firm.
Please check the images for size.