majotae

In April 2024, Japanese hemp textile brand majotae will debut its first product line ‘majotae 9490’ at Milan Design Week, marking the occasion with a two-part installation at Secci Milano (Via Olmetto 1) and Berta (Via Cesare Correnti 14).

At the forefront of material innovation, majotae’s technological developments have modernised traditional hemp cloth production processes to develop an elevated textile with increased softness and durability, suited for present day use.

Designed in collaboration with Teruhiro Yanagihara Studio, the first collection will introduce luxury bedding in a range of hues, spanning flat sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases. The name itself ‘9490’ refers to the number of days the average person sleeps in their lifetime, and the range has been designed to enhance this experience with a long-lasting textile that is comfortable against the skin. Hemp cloth is recognised for its ability to keep users warm in winter and cool in summer. It is also quick drying, naturally antibacterial and odour resistant. One of its most charming facets is that it softens and smooths over time, engaging a comforting familiarity which, partnered with its durability, encourages long-term use.  

Drawing upon extensive research and an archive of over 1,500 hemp artefacts, majotae is informed by the heritage of ‘taima-fu’ natural hemp cloth in Japan, where it was first introduced over 10,000 years ago. The fabric has had a variety of uses over time, from ‘shimenawa’ rope used to ward off evil spirits, to ‘kesho-mawashi’ loincloths used by the highest rank of sumo wrestlers - the yokozuna. During the Edo period, its fine hand-woven texture and antibacterial properties made the fabric well suited to undergarments and for layering under armour, whilst its ability to lock in heat made it the preference of the ‘matagi’ winter hunters of northern Japan. Additional uses include fishing lines, mosquito nets, and work-wear.

The Industrial Revolution transformed the global fabric industry, generating machines able to significantly accelerate manufacturing processes. This however led hemp cloth to largely fall out of production, as hemp fibres were considered unsuitable for mechanical spinning. The fibre is now attracting global attention once more due to the potential for hemp to be cultivated quickly in arid regions and with reduced environmental impact.

During Milan Design Week, the majotae 9490 story will be presented across two venues, with creative direction led by Teruhiro Yanagihara Studio. Secci Milano (Via Olmetto 1) will showcase the innovative new collection in a striking installation which invites visitors to interact with the hemp cloth and learn more about the journey from ancient production techniques towards a vision for the future. At Berta (Via Cesare Correnti 14), majotae’s taima-fu research and archive will be presented in an immersive exhibition, delving deeper into the history of the fabric.

Following Milan Design Week, the collection will be available to purchase globally from May 2024 via majotae9490.com.