Introducing the Maison's Identity with a Playful Touch

Hermès began in 1837 as a harness workshop. The ongoing exhibition 'Leather Forever' focuses on leather, the material the Maison has used and prioritized since its founding. It also highlights the craftsmanship, passed down and evolved for over 170 years, including material selection, cutting, sewing, and finishing. While looking back at the history of leather goods, particularly bags, it introduces the Maison's identity with a playful touch.

The Hyokeikan at the Tokyo National Museum, the venue, features 12 rooms divided by theme. The first room displays various types of leather dyed in vibrant colors and introduces the processing methods and tools. Furthermore, artisans from Paris have come to Japan for this exhibition to demonstrate the creation process of bags, which cannot be seen elsewhere.

In the room dedicated to Hermès' signature bags, the 'Kelly' and 'Birkin,' the exhibition delves into the allure of these masterpieces, which boast approximately 1,000 variations each, by displaying models with different colors and forms. The display using a 'Kelly' shaped object (top photo) is particularly impressive. A room with sand reminiscent of a racecourse focuses on harnesses and other equestrian equipment. There are also rooms showcasing other leather goods such as belts and watches.

The final room exhibits bags created specifically for this exhibition. These are micro-sized models inspired by 'bonsai,' featuring eight types including 'Kelly' and 'Birkin,' which luxuriously utilize the skills of saddle and leather artisans as well as goldsmiths. The venue also includes a horse riding experience corner, making it enjoyable not only for Hermès fans but also for families and young aspiring fashion enthusiasts.

Special Exhibition

Hermès 'Leather Forever'

Dates | Until December 23 (Tuesday, holiday)

Hours | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission 30 minutes before closing)

Closed on December 15 (Monday) and December 22 (Monday)

Venue | Tokyo National Museum Hyokeikan

13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Admission | Free

(To enter, please obtain an exchange ticket from the URL below and present it on your mobile phone or smartphone screen at the dedicated counter at the main gate of the Tokyo National Museum.)

Tokyo National Museum main gate's dedicated counter.)

http://lfe.hermes.com/jp