Gurunavi to Showcase 1,000-Year-Old Japanese Craftsmanship in Paris
Gurunavi will present the over 1,000-year-old Japanese "Magewappa" handicraft tradition in Paris. The showcase will feature 40 Japanese wood products aimed at driving decarbonization and ESG.
Gurunavi announced its presentation of the "Magewappa" handicraft tradition, over 1,000 years old, at Maison & Objet Paris 2026. The event will also feature 40 Japanese wood products, focusing on their role in decarbonization and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.
Yoshimasa Shibata, recognized as one of only 16 certified traditional craftsmen of Odate Magewappa in Japan, will conduct live demonstrations. He will showcase precise techniques of hot-water bending and wild cherry bark stitching, essential steps in creating Magewappa vessels.
Magewappa refers to traditional Japanese lunch boxes or containers crafted by bending thin wood veneers and stitching the edges together. Gurunavi suggests these products offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to contemporary plastic and disposable items.
The Paris exhibition aims to introduce international audiences to Japanese culture and traditional craftsmanship. It also highlights the potential of wood-based products as solutions for sustainable development and carbon footprint reduction.