Lot # 30 - 1940s Japanese Bamboo Lobster Cage Basket/Purse
| Opening Bid : | $ 5.00 |
| Pickup Instructions: | PICK UPS MARCH 15TH-16TH 10-2:00 PM - USE SHIPPING IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT - PLENTY OF STREET PARKING -BRING HELP FOR HEAVY ITEMS - BRING YOUR OWN PACKAGING FOR HAULING DELICATE AND MULTIPLE LOT ITEMS |
| Start Date/Time: | 05-Mar-2026 7:00:00 AM |
| End Date/Time: | 16-Mar-2026 7:29:00 PM |
| Current bid: |
0 |
| Highest bidder: | -- |
| Bidding starts in: |
Description :
1940s Japanese Bamboo Lobster Cage Basket/Purse Offered is a rare 1940s-1950s Japanese "Lobster Cage" basket purse. While there is genius engineering in the artisan crafted construction, this piece is beautiful when opened and used, or when closed and stored. It features bent wood bamboo slats that are roped together like a fan, and can be spread and opened, or folded backwards and stored flat. It's inspired by the functional lobster traps in use at the time, basket style in a curved barrel shape, the slats are anchored along dowels on each side capped with squared ends painted red, and topped with double handles and clever interlocking closure. Measurements: Condition: Historical Note: Value:
Approx. 10–14 in. wide x 7–10 in. tall x 6–9 in. deep
Vintage condition with visible wear consistent with age and use. Some bamboo slats show splitting, surface wear, and areas of previous repair or reinforcement. Structurally intact and displays well. See photos for details.
Japanese bamboo lobster cage baskets were traditionally used by fishermen and later adapted into decorative and fashion pieces during the early to mid-20th century. By the 1940s–1960s, these sculptural baskets became popular export items and are now sought after for their craftsmanship, organic form, and crossover appeal as décor or handbag.
Estimated $125–$275 depending on condition and collector demand
Auction History
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PAYMENT DETAILS
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Pickup details will be included on the invoice emailed after the auction closes. Any items not picked up during the scheduled pickup times will be considered abandoned and may be resold or donated. In limited circumstances, and solely at our discretion, an alternate pickup time may be approved for an additional fee.
A 10% Buyer’s Premium and applicable sales tax will be added to the final hammer price at invoicing. Sales tax will be waived for licensed resellers with valid documentation on file.
Agora Estate Company makes every effort to accurately describe all items. Please expect normal wear consistent with age, use, and history for antique, vintage, and pre-owned pieces. We do not note every minor imperfection. All items are sold AS IS, WHERE IS, with no refunds or returns. Agora Estate Company does not guarantee the working condition of any clock, watch, electronic, or mechanical item. Measurements provided are approximate.
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