Fujinuma Noboru (b. 1945, designated Japanese Living National Treasure 2012), open weave bamboo sculpture in flower basket or Ikebana form titled "Spring Tide". Signed with Japanese character to underside. Retains original box and receipt from Tai Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 2008. Basket – 13" diameter by 10"H. Box – 12"h x 14 5/8" W. Biography: "Fujinuma Noboru, from Tochigi Prefecture, studied with Yagisawa Keizo (1927-2006) and consequently became a member of the Iizuka family lineage. He began his career in engineering and photography before discovering his true metier was bamboo. After his immersion in European artistic traditions while traveling in Paris in 1974, Fujinuma felt compelled to learn more about his own culture and the traditional arts of Japan. Inspired by the works of Shono Shounsai, he began by making simple bamboo objects. Later, he worked as an independent bamboo artist, consulting with such well-known masters as Iizuka Shokansai." (Source: the Metropolitan Museum of Art). Fujinuma was designated as a Holder of Important Intangible Property (Living National Treasure) in 2012 by the Japanese government for his bamboo craft (chiku kogei) technique. His works are in the collections of multiple Japanese museums, along with the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

PROVENANCE: The collection of Judy and Pete Nebhut, Nashville, TN.

CONDITION: Excellent condition with one minor spot of wear to underside. Some wear and minor edge losses to exterior of box.