Hello, I'm Hana.
Today, let's talk about the immensely-popular traditional Japanese steam-bending woodcraft: the Mage-WAPPA.
Believed to have originated around the 8th century, Mage-WAPPA bento boxes are recognized as a traditional Japanese craft, celebrated for their natural cedar wood grains and beautiful curves crafted by skilled artisans.
In this blog, we will delve deep into the charm of the Mage-WAPPA, focusing particularly on the well-known Odate Mage-WAPPA from Akita Prefecture. Join me as we dissect the intricacies of Mage-WAPPA, where even the process itself becomes a delightful experience!
By the end of this blog, I hope you'll find inspiration for a "thoughtful lifestyle," appreciating the essence of materials through the lens of the Mage-WAPPA. You will be looking forward to the days when the delicate craftsmanship, truly embracing the Made-in-Japan spirit, captivates both your eyes and heart during meals.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is a Mage-WAPPA?
The history behind the Mage-WAPPA
Crafting the Mage-WAPPA
The allure of the Mage-WAPPA
How to use and care for a Mage-WAPPA
In conclusion…
What is a Mage-WAPPA?
Mage-WAPPA, or magemono, refers to traditional crafts made by bending thinly processed cedar or cypress wood. Among them, the Odate Mage-WAPPA from the Tohoku region in Akita Prefecture has been designated as a traditional craft since 1980. Renowned for the natural cedar wood grain and the artisanal skill behind its graceful curves, it has been highly valued for its lightweight and easy-to-handle qualities, making it a practical choice for bento boxes that continue to be cherished today.
The History Behind the Mage-WAPPA
So, how did the Mage-WAPPA, beloved by people of various generations, come into existence? Around the 8th century, lumberjacks used cedar wood to craft containers through a process called "bending." After the defeat in the Battle of Sekigahara, Toyotomi's group was relocated to Akita by the Tokugawa shogunate. Faced with severe weather conditions like frost and flooding, the people of Akita struggled to secure their daily meals.
Noticing the abundance of natural Akita cedar, Toyotomi encouraged lower-ranking samurais to take up bending crafts as a side job. The Mage-WAPPA products crafted by these samurais gradually circulated nationwide, gaining popularity for the brand value of using natural Akita cedar and their gracefully curved aesthetics achieved through the handiwork of artisans. This marked the beginning of the widespread recognition of the Odate Mage-WAPPA.
However, after being designated as a traditional craft in 1980, the industry faced challenges as people sought more convenient alternatives like heat-resistant aluminum, steel, or affordable plastic bento boxes. Additionally, restrictions on the felling of natural Akita cedar for environmental reasons led to the production of Mage-WAPPA using two types of wood: natural Akita cedar and Akita cedar, of which felling is not prohibited. Consequently, Mage-WAPPA products made from natural Akita cedar are considered to be extremely rare and high value.
A turning point for the Odate Mage-WAPPA came a few years ago when a trend emerged emphasizing a careful lifestyle, SDGs, and the use of safe materials. This shift in mindset rekindled interest in the excellent qualities of the Odate Mage-WAPPA, not only in Japan but also as a noteworthy Made-in-Japan product globally.
Crafting the Mage-WAPPA
Highly valued for its rarity and the beautiful wood grain of natural Akita cedar, the Odate Mage-WAPPA is meticulously crafted by artisans through manual processes. How exactly is the Mage-WAPPA made with such precision, harking back to the origins of lumberjacks crafting bent objects?
Selection and cutting of wood:
The Mage-WAPPA uses thinly processed parts of matured natural cedar, dried for several years to achieve the desired straight grain. The grain pattern, known as "masame," appears when cutting vertically near the center of the annual rings, and it is considered the most beautiful wood grain in cedar. Since each piece is unique, the discerning eye of a skilled artisan is crucial during material selection.
Stripping → Boiling → Bending:
The next step involves processing the wood. The "stripping" process involves thinning of the masame part so that the overlapping sections become the same thickness when the boards are combined. This step, called "hagitoki," is the most challenging and can only be done by skilled artisans. The thin boards are then boiled in hot water to soften them, quickly wrapped around a mold, and carefully bent by hand.
Drying → Bottom-fitting → Finishing:
After being removed from the mold, the curved boards are left to dry for 7 to 10 days to solidify the curves. Once dry, they are stitched together using cherry bark, and the sides and bottom are meticulously fitted to eliminate any gaps. Finally, the surface is smoothed with sandpaper to achieve the finished product. The cherry bark stitching process varies between workshops and artisans, adding a touch of uniqueness.
(Ref:工芸用に3種類のサクラの皮をむいてみた！ : 岐阜県立森林文化アカデミー (forest.ac.jp))
The Allure of the Mage-WAPPA
In recent years, the resurgence of the bento culture in Japan and Europe has led to a trend where photos of vibrant Mage-WAPPA-based lunches are considered aesthetically pleasing on social media. What makes the Mage-WAPPA so appealing, capturing attention and enduring love worldwide? Let's explore three aspects of the charm of the Mage-WAPPA.
Delicious even when cold:
First and foremost, the appeal lies in the fact that the food remains delicious even when it gets cold. Unlike plastic bento boxes that become sticky as time passes, Mage-WAPPA products have the ability to adjust humidity due to their wooden nature. This ensures that even rice left for some time remains fluffy and soft, as delicious as if freshly made. Additionally, cedar wood has natural antibacterial properties, making ingredients less prone to spoilage, especially in the summer.
Lightweight, durable, and long-lasting:
Mage-WAPPA bento boxes weigh approximately 100g to 150g. To put it in perspective, that is lighter than a single potato or banana and even lighter than an iPhone. The cedar wood, grown in the cold region of Akita, is known for its tight annual rings. With each use, the rings tighten further, enhancing durability. Proper care can extend the lifespan of Mage-WAPPA products for decades, and there have been instances of boxes made over a century ago still being functional.
Superior relaxation through wooden material:
The simple color and material of wood, a timeless element, do not interfere with the colors of the meal, rather enhancing its appeal. Moreover, the warmth wood brings to a meal is unmatched. Food in a wooden vessel, such as soup, not only provides physical warmth but also gives a visual sense of warmth. The faint scent of cedar imparted to the rice offers a luxurious and elegant touch, signaling that you are indulging in a high-quality meal. Amid your busy days, the moment spent enjoying a meal in a Mage-WAPPA container is sure to feel exceptionally delightful.
Mage-WAPPA Usage and Care Instructions
The charm of the Mage-WAPPA lies in its natural materials, requiring different usage and care compared to synthetic items like plastic bento boxes. Here are some tips:
When packing a lunch:
To preserve the breathing ability of the wood, start by putting rice into the box. Once filled, let it cool with the lid open until it reaches room temperature. This helps prevent the rice’s moisture from being trapped in the box.
Drawbacks of the humidity adjustment feature:
While the humidity adjustment is a fantastic feature, it comes with some drawbacks as well. Mage-WAPPA products cannot be stored in the refrigerator, used in a microwave or dishwasher, soaked in water for an extended period, or cleaned with detergent. There is also a risk of mold.
To care for your Mage-WAPPA product:
Wash it gently with a sponge without using detergent.
After washing, use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any moisture.
Allow it to air dry for at least one night, preferably two, to ensure thorough drying.
"Slow Living" with Natural Materials
The drawbacks associated with natural materials, including those of Mage-WAPPA products, are not unique to this craft. Consider other items you may have, such as a leather wallet or boots. Despite the maintenance challenges, there are probably items made of such materials that you love, cherish, and have used for an extended period.
The inherent qualities of natural materials shine through the more they are used, creating a sense of attachment. Whether it's leather goods or a Mage-WAPPA, the principle remains the same. In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for the goodness of materials, a desire for a "thoughtful lifestyle" with "slow living," and a push towards effective resource utilization, as seen in the SDGs. Embracing the effort and enjoying Mage-WAPPA products as part of this movement can be a gratifying experience.
In Conclusion
So, have I successfully conveyed the charm of dishware crafted from natural materials, particularly the Mage-WAPPA? I hope this blog has sparked your interest even a little. Behind the seemingly simple method of "bending wood" lies the exquisite beauty made possible by the skilled craftsmanship of artisans. With the felling of natural Akita cedar being restricted, Mage-WAPPA products crafted by pursuing high-quality materials and delicate handwork have become a symbol of indulging in "genuine" and "high-quality" experiences.
Amid your busy daily life, take a moment with a Mage-WAPPA to savor the joy of enjoying a meal with all five senses. Would you consider incorporating this into your routine, relishing a more thoughtful way of living, even if just for a moment?