Object Details
Artist
Shono Shounsai
Date
1955–1965
Medium
Bamboo
Dimensions
Height: 16 inches (40.6 cm)
Diameter: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of Ritalou Rogow Harris, Class of 1957, and Robert O. Harris
Object
Number
2012.015.022
Shono Shounsai’s poor health as a child led to his training in bamboo basketry, as was often the c(…)
Shono Shounsai’s poor health as a child led to his training in bamboo basketry, as was often the case for people with physical ailments that prevented them from pursuing other vocations. He apprenticed in Kyushu with Sato Chikuyusai and showed unusual talent. By the early age of 22 he had mastered bamboo techniques and established his own studio. In his pursuit of a personal artistic expression he pushed bamboo art to a whole new level, creating bold, sculptural works. In 1967, Shono Shounsai became the first bamboo artist to be honored with the designation of Living National Treasure.
