Vintage Japanese hand-knitted straw back pad Bandori

This Bandori is a traditional carrying backpack from the snowy Shonai region of Yamagata, Japan.
It is handwoven from natural rice straw, with shoulder straps reinforced by hand-braided recycled indigo-dyed fabric strips.
　
In the past, such bandori were used daily by farmers to carry harvested crops or firewood through deep snow.
Today, it stands as a striking example of rural Japanese craftsmanship – both functional and sculptural, evoking the quiet beauty of handwoven life tools.
　
Made in the mid-20th century, it reflects the resourcefulness and aesthetic sense of the Shonai region’s farming culture.
　
 
Mesures : 72cm (28in) × 30cm (11in)