Artisan Skill with 1.5M Facebook Views! New "Ikkanbari Small Box (Eyeglass Stand)" Brings Traditional Craft to Modern Life

Taketora (operated by Yamagishi Bamboo Store Co., Ltd.), a specialized bamboo manufacturer that has been favored by customers as a wholesaler of bamboo materials and products since its founding in 1894, has newly launched the "Ikkanbari Small Box (Eyeglass Stand)," which incorporates the traditional Ikkanbari technique into modern living. It combines natural materials long cherished in Japan—bamboo, washi paper, and persimmon tannin—to create an interior small box that allows for enjoyable, visible storage. Ikkanbari Small Box (Eyeglass Stand) https://www.taketora.co.jp/c/takekago/03interior/sa00900 This product is handcrafted by an artisan whose production video of an Ikkanbari trunk went viral on Facebook with over 1.5 million views. Every step, from bamboo weaving to paper application and persimmon tannin finishing, is done meticulously, adapting a time-honored technique to a form that suits contemporary life. Despite its compact size, it is a masterpiece that exudes the presence and flavor unique to traditional crafts. The base is made of domestic Madake bamboo using a Yotsume-ami (four-eye weave). While it's not uncommon for Ikkanbari products to use foreign-made baskets, this item is uncompromising, insisting on bamboo weaving by a Japanese artisan even in the parts hidden beneath the washi paper. The faint lines of the bamboo strips visible through the washi paper are a beauty born from the well-proportioned weave. For the paper, 100% Kozo (mulberry) traditional washi paper is used. Unlike industrially mass-produced pulp washi, the long fibers of Kozo intertwine to create a rich texture unique to handwork. Some surface fuzz may be visible, but that too is an expression of the natural material. Furthermore, by carefully finishing with a special shuro tawashi (hemp palm brush), a three-dimensional texture is achieved where the bamboo weave emerges from under the washi paper. For the finish, the artisan has inherited a traditional technique learned from his father since junior high school, applying five coats of persimmon tannin. Repeatedly applying the tannin not only enhances durability but also creates a unique deep color and texture. The process of repeated drying and coating results in a finish characteristic of time-consuming handwork. One of its charms is that its color changes as it is used, gaining more character over the years. It can be used not only as an eyeglass stand but also conveniently for storing desk accessories like pens, scissors, clips, sticky notes, and snacks. Additionally, different color schemes are used for the rim, adding a playful touch to its calm demeanor. The inside is not lined with washi paper, allowing you to enjoy the texture of the bamboo itself. As a storage box that allows you to savor the simple charm of natural materials like bamboo, washi paper, and persimmon tannin, and the warmth of an artisan's handiwork, you can use it in your daily life and appreciate the beauty of Japanese traditional techniques for years to come. Please take this opportunity to visit the Taketora specialty bamboo store's website. Ikkanbari Small Box (Eyeglass Stand) - Traditional technique with a new sense, Visible Storage Series. Selling Price: 1,980 yen (tax included). https://www.taketora.co.jp/c/takekago/03interior/sa00900. ■Taketora (Yamagishi Bamboo Store Co., Ltd.). Company Name: Taketora Co., Ltd. Yamagishi Bamboo Store. Location: 913-1 Yasawa, Susaki, Kochi (Head Office/Main Store). CEO: Yoshihiro Yamagishi. Founded: 1894. Capital: 10 million yen. Business: Manufacturing, wholesale, and sales of various bamboo crafts, bamboo products, bamboo charcoal, bamboo vinegar, etc., focusing on the specialty Torafudake bamboo. URL: https://www.taketora.co.jp/. ■Contact for this press release: Yoshihiro Yamagishi, 4th Generation Head of Taketora. E-Mail: info@taketora.co.jp. Taketora (Yamagishi Bamboo Store Co., Ltd.) 913-1 Yasawa, Susaki, Kochi 785-0024. TEL 0889-42-3201 FAX 0889-42-3283 (Business hours 9:00-17:30).