The modern version of this basket can be found today in almost any office supply store. They were made for the same purpose: a desk organizer, meant to hold documents and letters in a neat and orderly fashion. The level of expertise needed to split and weave together bamboo strips in this rectangular shape without any distortions over the course of a century is truly astounding.
As in other Japanese crafts, the acquisition of knowledge and technique to produce such pieces involved a lengthy apprenticeship with a master of a workshop. The quality and durability of this piece is testament to the years of training behind its making. Introducing an old basket from a different era to your workspace may have a calming effect on your day to day life.