The Iconic Graphic Designer Brings His Signature Style to the Bernard Arnault-Owned Leather Goods Company
Bernard Arnault-owned leather goods company Moynat has partnered with iconic Japanese graphic designer and printmaker Kazumasa Nagai for a special Holiday capsule. The collaboration involves a series of handbags, passport cases, cardholders, notebook covers and bag charms showcasing vibrant versions of Nagai’s quirky animal-themed designs.
The designs feature unique cartoon-like creatures including a lion, monkey, owl, octopus, starfish, and a whale shark, selected from Nagai’s collection of past and more recent works. Elaborating on his creative approach, Nagai stated, “animals come in all shapes and varieties…I didn’t draw them realistically. They were all from my world expressed in a simple way with a sense of curiosity and cuteness.”
The capsule will be available for sale from Tuesday in select Moynat boutiques. Price ranges from 300 euros for small leather goods to 1,800 euros for a top-handle Duo BB bag.
Kazumasa Nagai holds a legendary status in Japan’s graphic design arena and is recognized for his role in establishing the Nippon Design Center. His decades-long career includes designing logos for Japan Railways, Asahi Breweries, and the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan. A collaboration with a leather goods firm was a novel experience for Nagai, but the blend of haute craftsmanship and design presented by Moynat captured his interest.
According to Nagai, “The skills of Moynat’s artisans are truly exceptional.” He further appreciated how “the animals have been integrated into the bags, passport and card holders feel so lively.”
Nagai’s involvement extended beyond providing designs; he also played a crucial role in determining color combinations and the placement of his drawings. Meanwhile, Moynat’s teams diligently worked to transfer these designs onto leather products without compromising the intricate details of Nagai’s designs.
Reports suggest Moynat may expand on the Nagai collaboration into December when Dover Street Market Ginza is expected to introduce an additional range of exclusive leather goods.
Moynat, one of Arnault’s lesser known brands is predominantly known for its dainty, top-handle bags. It strongly adheres to an artisanal approach based on rare raw materials and haute craftsmanship. Pathways to the company’s rich historical roots can be traced back as far as 1849, predating Louis Vuitton by five years. Moynat’s original lines prominently included lightweight, waterproof trunks for automobiles – a range of products they continue to passionately collect. The brand was revived by Arnault in 2011 and currently remains under the stewardship of the family-run Groupe Arnault. Moynat presently operates around 25 boutiques worldwide.