"Love・Long Lasting" - The Theme of This "Only I" Feature

Jubako boxes are currently used to hold New Year's osechi cuisine, but historically, they have been cherished as "our family's proud tableware," not only for New Year's but also for cherry blossom viewing, as picnic lunch boxes, and as indispensable vessels for gatherings.
For this project, I wanted to create an unprecedented jubako with Riko-san, keeping in mind its use for various occasions and everyday life.

What Riko-san and I discussed for this initiative was "authentic items that can be used for a long time." This is a creation that aligns with the theme of "Love・Long Lasting" for this "Only I" feature.
To realize this theme, we collaborated with Yamada Heiando, a company renowned for its modern lacquerware and extensive collaborations with designers.



Riko-san and I selected the jubako and plates of the same shape, which are popular original items from Heiando.
The material is wood, and the color has been changed from the original vermilion to black, finished with hand-applied lacquer.
The shape is a regular hexagon, which has a strong presence and allows for enjoyment by arranging multiple pieces.

Riko-san's design features a vibrant pattern drawn with circles and straight lines, placed on the inside of the jubako. When you open the jet-black jubako, the amber-colored pattern shining on the inside of the lid immediately catches your eye.

Using the maki-e technique called Byakudan-nuri, Riko-san's distinctive patterns are expressed with a subtle luster. This technique is characterized by its increasing brilliance with prolonged use. You can also enjoy the pattern that appears at the bottom as you eat.
True to Riko-san's style, who designs with a thorough understanding of the artisans' techniques and manufacturing methods, she considered even the limitations of the maki-e artisan's brush strokes within the inner part of the jubako and on the plates, designing within those constraints.

The plates are also designed with functionality in mind, allowing them to be stacked with the jubako.
When the jubako and plates are combined and placed on the table, it's as if Riko-san's patterns are scattered across the table. I believe we have created a lacquerware series that allows for a modern style of hospitality. It's not outlandish, but it's a jubako unlike any other.

Listening to Customer Feedback and Creating with Our Own Hands is the Most Direct Path

──Riko TakahashiWhat are your impressions of Ms. Takahashi's work?

Through this project, I keenly felt that Riko-san's designs possess a Japanese aesthetic while also having a global appeal.
With Japanese culture and cuisine gaining attention worldwide, I believe this series will be appreciated not only in Japan but also in European and American markets.




──Sales will finally begin on Wednesday, March 4th.

We are making the final preparations to ensure that each item is crafted to perfection, so that our customers will be delighted.
During the exhibition period, we hope that not only HIROCOLEDGE fans but also many customers with a keen interest in all aspects of living – food, clothing, and shelter – will experience the world of Isetan Living × HIROCOLEDGE, meticulously created by each buyer and Riko-san. Please visit us on the 5th floor of the Isetan Main Store.