Bamboo Hand Windmill by Chikuen

These windmills were made for Oita based bamboo specialists Chikuen.

Intertwined hand crafted bamboo threads form the body of these miniature windmills, with kimono patterned Japanese paper (washi) on the sails.  A classic motif of the Japanese summer, they flutter on stalls, or are held in the hand during traditional festivals on hot midsummer nights.

Somehow comforting to have nearby, the windmills are 47cm long, and 12cm at their widest point.  They weigh 5g.

About Chikuen

Based in central Beppu, in Oita on Kyushu, Chikuen source and supply items from within the bamboo craftsmanship for which their region is known. This includes traditional and modern accoutrements to Japanese life, and items to inject utility and fun into everyday life. In the Mukae family since 1965, Chikuen’s bamboo hinterland is extensive, and their catalogue wide.