"Mage-wappa" means "curved wood product". In 1980, Mage-wappa was certified "Traditional Crafts of Japan". This video shows how this unique craft is made.
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KURIKYU
Kurikyu was established in Odate in 1874. It is currently run by the 6th generation of the family,
Their artworks translate into simplicity, elegance and natural beauty, by combining the authentic Akita cedar with the finishing touch of "Sakura cherry bark"; another Akita specialty craft called "Kabazaiku". Kurikyu products carry the ‘Traditional License’ awarded by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to separate high-quality craftwork from industrialized mass production, and the Traditional Crafts of Japan Design award that goes with it.
They also won the Good Design Award, by the Ministry of International Trade, who next to beauty, also focused on quality, safety, functionality and consideration for the environment.
Shunji Kurimori, who mastered the craft at the age of 18 and has won several awards for his craftmanship. Hoping to spread the art his family and hometown specialized in, he has participated in exhibitions in Australia, England, China and the United States.
Cedar wood has proven to be made into an ideal food trays, bento lunch boxes and tea container, because of its flexibility, its heat- and moisture retention properties and its antiseptic qualities. The boxes keep your food hot during winter and cool during summer, while keeping bacteria out. The wood is also beautifully colored, light to carry and has an excellent aroma that enhances any type of food stored. The finished products are timeless, simple and undeniably beautiful. KURIKYU is especially well known for their stacked bento models, as well as their award winning designs for sake cups, wine cooler and fruits bowl.
