Forests and Lakes, Resonant Sounds Lithuania: Baskets and Craft — Part 1

Beginning on Thursday, February 6, 2025, our physical store has been hosting a special “The One Table” exhibition.
Titled “From Lithuania / Baskets and Craft – Carrying, Gifting, Sounds and Wind,”
the exhibition introduces Lithuanian folk crafts, including baskets made from pine roots and willow.
Each piece is visually delightful, gentle on the body, and quietly uplifting to the spirit.
In this column, we will also be introducing the lineup featured in the exhibition.
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1.-1 Willow Decorative Basket, Circle
In Lithuania, this type of basket has long been used as an interior decoration.
If baskets used for harvesting mushrooms or berries are considered “working baskets,”
this one is known as a “decorative basket,” and is said to have been found in living rooms and reception spaces of many homes since the Soviet era.
It is the kind of nostalgic item that feels as though it would always be found in a grandmother’s house.
It could also be lovely displayed on the wall, where the woven pattern can be fully appreciated.

1.-2 Willow Decorative Basket, Fruit, L
This is another richly decorative basket with a strong sense of three-dimensional form.
Whatever you place inside, it brings a bright and lively presence.
Although the weaving is delicate, the willow itself is firm and resilient,
giving the basket a crisp and well-defined structure.

2.-1 Large Wooden Clothespin
A large clip made from oak, the national tree of Lithuania.
With its appealing design, it is a pleasure to look at and brings a sense of joy.
The spring is strong and provides a firm grip, making it suitable for practical use as well.
You can view the Large Wooden Clothespin in our online shop here.

2.-2 Stopper Clip
This item is made from linden wood.
It is useful for sealing partially used bags, such as those for herbal tea or snacks.
By sliding the opening of the bag into the split in the stick and securing it with the donut-shaped cap,
this simple yet practical design proves especially handy around the kitchen.

3. S フック
こちらはつるして使える、S字型の木製フック。
よく見ると、S字に入った模様にバリエーションが!
それぞれ「植物」「水」「土」をイメージされたモチーフが描かれています。バーチ合板製。

3. S Hook
This is an S-shaped wooden hook designed for hanging.
Look closely, and you’ll notice variations in the patterns carved into the S shape.
Each motif is inspired by “plants,” “water,” or “earth.” Made from birch plywood.
You can view the Lithuania / Birch S Hook in our online shop here.

With its high decorative appeal, it can also be displayed as an ornament from time to time.
It also works beautifully as a decoration for a Christmas tree.

It would also make a lovely gift.
You can view the Birch Coasters in our online shop here.

5.-1 Ceramic Whistle – Owl, 3 Sizes
An owl family so charming that you can’t help but smile when your eyes meet theirs.
From left to right: S, L, and M sizes. Each piece features one of several hand-painted patterns.
(*Please note that this series of ceramic whistles is available in-store only.)
Each owl has a mouthpiece on its back.
Smaller sizes produce higher tones, while larger ones produce lower tones—each whistle sounds a single note.
These pieces are the work of ceramic artist Vigantas Vasaistis,
formed on a traditional foot-powered kick wheel, shaped without the use of electricity.

In Lithuania, Vigantas continues to create his work while researching and drawing upon traditional techniques.
Pitchers, bowls, plates, and bird-shaped ceramic whistles.
Each piece is formed on a foot-powered kick wheel, and then decorated with dot patterns applied using tools made from animal horns.
These dotted patterns have long existed as ceramic motifs.
Similar dot-based designs can also be found on Easter eggs, where they have traditionally been used as symbols of elements such as wind and water.

5.-2 Ceramic Whistle – Rooster
This rooster is also shaped on a traditional foot-powered kick wheel.
The tail serves as the mouthpiece, and by covering or uncovering the two holes on either side,
you can produce three notes: do, re, and mi.
The left piece is size S, and the right piece is size M.

5.-3 Ceramic Whistle – Bird
The bird whistles are made using a hand-building technique,
and their plump, rounded forms have a gently comforting presence.
The owl, rooster, and bird whistles each differ in their painted patterns,
subtle variations in shape, and the brushwork of the dotted decoration.
As each piece is truly one of a kind, these whistles are available for in-store purchase only.
We hope you will take the opportunity to see them in person
and choose the one that speaks to you.

5.-4 Linen Stoles
These are 100% linen stoles woven by Sofia.
This time, we are introducing three different types.
Lithuania is known as a land of linen.
The fabric has a slightly textured, airy weave, yet when wrapped around the neck, it feels smooth and gentle against the skin.
In winter, it provides a gradual, comforting warmth.
In spring and autumn, when the air is cool but you may feel a little warm during the day, it offers just the right amount of breathability—making it a truly versatile piece.

This one comes in a dark brown shade, reminiscent of khaki. 
This is a gray openwork weave. When wrapped around the neck, it still feels reassuringly warm. 
This one features a dark green color with a subtle striped pattern. 
Linen can be hand-washed. It is a durable material that softens against the skin over time, developing an even richer texture with use.

Our introduction to Lithuanian craft is far from over.
Some items will also be made available through our online shop, and will be added gradually,
so we hope you will look forward to those as well.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
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“The One Table” Special Exhibition
From Lithuania / Baskets and Craft – Carrying, Gifting, Sounds and Wind –
February 2025
Thu 6, Fri 7, Sat 8, Sun 9
Thu 13, Fri 14, Sat 15
Thu 20, Fri 21, Sat 22
Thu 27, Fri 28, Sat Mar 1
Pine root baskets, hazel, and willow baskets made by Ira and Ana in Lithuania,
as well as miniature baskets by Gintas.
In addition, we will be introducing a variety of Lithuanian baskets,
including peeled willow baskets by Sigitas, which are being shown at our shop for the first time.
Baskets are containers, and they are also meant to be carried,
but alongside these baskets, we will also be displaying a selection of wonderful Lithuanian crafts
that make you want to place something inside and carry them along.
From blended herbal teas and chocolates to ceramic owl and bird whistles,
ceramic cups and pitchers, and wooden crafts,
each item is thoughtfully made—practical, authentic, and visually delightful.
For celebrating someone close to you, as a thoughtful gift,
or as a present for yourself—why not fill a basket and take it home?
We look forward to welcoming you.
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Please note that the special exhibition is displayed on the central table.
The surrounding shelves feature our regular, permanent selection as usual.
Alongside restocked items, we will also be introducing newly arrived pieces.
We hope you will enjoy exploring those as well.