PARIS – Decorative lacquer products created by Vietnamese craftsmen are currently being showcased at Maison&Objet – an international trade fair for home decor, interior design, architecture and lifestyle culture.

Lacquer vases feature distinctive colours. Photo courtesy of Hanoia

During the event currently unfolding in Paris, Vietnamese haute lacquer house Hanoia has unveiled over 100 exquisite lacquer products.

These unique pieces include selections from past collections as well as previously unrevealed creations. Notably, this marks the first time a Vietnamese brand has participated in such a large-scale international exhibition.

Maison&Objet 2024 is taking place from September 5 to 9 at the Villepinte Exposition Park in northern Paris.

Hanoia co-founder Nguyễn Thị Nhung said that their participation in the fair serves a dual purpose: to solidify the brand’s position and to forge new partnerships.

“Hanoia distinguishes itself through a vibrant palette of colours, impeccable lacquer techniques and one-of-a-kind creative designs. With the thoughtfully curated products showcased in this fair, Hanoia aims to leave a lasting impression while exploring avenues for global expansion, bringing its exquisite offerings closer to discerning consumers worldwide,” she said.

Lacquer containers showcase a diverse yet impressive colour palette. Photo courtesy of Hanoia

In lacquer art, colour is the soul of the work, and Hanoia has infused each piece with a range of warm hues and vibrant shades. Beyond the traditional palette of red, black, yellow and white, Hanoia boldly embraces modern hues, infusing each artwork with a fresh vitality.

But it’s not just about colour – intricate patterns, meticulously hand-painted, define Hanoia’s craftsmanship. Skilled artisans recognise this stage as the pinnacle challenge: patiently layering colours, waiting for for the colour to dry, and repeating until the entire design emerges. A single product may take many hours to create, truly capturing the essence of life.

With its participation in the prestigious global fair, Hanoia promises to offer a fresh perspective on the brilliant combination of innovative design and top-notch craftsmanship. The vibrant, eye-catching products serve as a strong affirmation of the original values that have been preserved and enhanced over the years.

The haute lacquer house proudly presented their products at Paris Design Week in 2020, but this is the first time Vietnamese products have been displayed at this particular event.

This is the first time a Vietnamese brand has participated in Maison&Objet. Photo courtesy of Hanoia

In 2017, Hanoia collaborated with Paris-based Vietnamese actress and designer Trần Nữ Yên Khê on an exclusive lacquer piece. Inspired by the iconic Vietnamese nón (conical hat), this functional tray seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary design. The unique work graced the auction stage at Christie’s in London in October the same year.

Five years later, renowned jewelry and object designer Gilles Jonemann ingeniously incorporated debris and redundant materials into Hanoia’s lacquer objects, resulting in 24 captivating contemporary artworks. These remarkable pieces later took centre stage at an exhibition in Hà Nội. VNS