Odate Magewappa

Timeless Elegance in Bentwood Craftsmanship

Steeped in over a thousand years of heritage, Odate Magewappa represents the pinnacle of Japanese bentwood craftsmanship.

Originating in the northern city of Odate, Akita Prefecture, this refined technique is the only Magemono officially designated as a Traditional Craft by the Japanese government—a true cultural treasure.

The term Magemono generally refers to wooden objects shaped by heat and bending, but only Odate Magewappa has obtained official recognition as a Traditional Art of Japan, testifying to its cultural value and the excellence of its workmanship.

The origins of this art date back to prehistoric times, with artifacts dating back to the 10th century.

During the Edo period, production was encouraged as a complementary craft for low-ranking samurai, later solidifying itself as an integral part of the region's artisanal identity. The techniques, jealously guarded, have been rigorously passed down to the present day.

Handcrafted from carefully selected Akita cedar, renowned for its pale hue, straight grain, and subtle, refreshing fragrance, each piece is a testament to nature’s quiet beauty and the artisan’s unwavering precision.

After the bark is removed, the wood is cut, softened in large steel boilers, and expertly shaped around elegant molds. Assembly is meticulously done: slow drying prevents warping, while the traditional cherry bark stitching—once necessary in the absence of glue—is today maintained as a distinctive sign of authenticity and refinement.

The result is an object of extraordinary visual and material lightness, combining pure lines, formal balance, and surprising functionality. Each piece tells the story of the wood, slowly grown in Akita's harsh climate and crafted with impeccable craftsmanship.

Over time, Magewappa has evolved with discreet elegance: from classic bento boxes and sake glasses to contemporary containers for baguettes, champagne, and designer objects. A tradition that lives on in the present, with extremely high standards of precision, aesthetics, and artisanal savoir-faire.

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The Crafting Process of Magewappa – The Art of Bentwood

Main material: Akita cedar (Akita sugi)

Total time required: approximately 3 weeks

1Selection and Cutting of the Wood

Whole logs of Akita cedar are milled into boards by a sawmill. From these, components are precisely cut according to the required dimensions, thickness, and purpose. Only straight-grained radial cuts (masame) are used, ideal for bending due to their structural consistency and beauty.

The edges of the boards intended for bending are carefully shaved to a thinner profile (hagi-tori). This ensures a uniform thickness when the board is curved and joined. It is the most technically demanding step in the process, requiring the hands of a highly skilled and experienced artisan.

2Boiling (Shafutsu)

To make the wood pliable, the boards are immersed in hot water and brought to about 80°C. This softens the fibers and allows safe bending without cracking.

3Bending (Mage-kakō)

Using a mold, the board is first gently flexed and then, at the right moment, firmly bent into shape. This is done with a precise balance of force and sensitivity.

4Fixing and Drying

Once shaped, the bent wood is held in place using wooden clamps. It is then left to dry for 7 to 10 days, allowing the curve to set and the shape to stabilize naturally.

5Gluing and Inserting the Base

After drying, the ends of the board are finely trimmed on the inside to increase adhesive strength. Glue is applied, and the joint is clamped again and left to cure for a full day.

A base panel is fitted into the curved wooden frame. A thin layer of adhesive is applied, and the base is tapped gently into place with a mallet. Excess glue is wiped clean to ensure a flawless finish.

6Cherry Bark Stitching (Kaba-toji)

The joint is hand-stitched with wild cherry bark (yamazakura). This traditional technique varies depending on the artisan or workshop and is often used as a signature decorative element.

7Final Finishing

The piece is then carefully sanded by hand. Edges are rounded to create a soft, natural feel, both visually and to the touch.

Every step is performed meticulously by hand.

This time-intensive process reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and deep respect for natural materials that define authentic Magewappa.

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