How Hermes artisans preserve objects, memories and traditions

The exhibition shows how objects designed to last are created using artisanal techniques. Crafted from the finest materials, they develop a patina, become more beautiful over time, and can be passed on and repaired.

Traveling to meet the public, artisans from the different metiers of the fashion house bring with them their tools, their materials, their expertise, and their spirit of transmission.

"The most important quality for a craftsman is that they must be motivated, they must have passion, and be able to adapt to different environments and different materials. They must keep learning throughout their entire career," says Christian Combe, a senior leather craftsman.

"As a leather craftsman, I pass on the spirit of the saddlery craft, which lies at the very heart of Hermes. I make sure all new-generation craftsmen share the same standards when it comes to quality. I teach them hand in hand — not just telling them with words what is good or bad, but truly showing them, step by step, what constitutes good quality and what does not," he adds.

Visitors to the exhibition can engage with artisans and explore interactive activities like saddle stitching and dexterity workshops.

Shanghai is the 15th leg of Hermes in the Making, a unique traveling event that has continued its journey across the world ever since its first stop in Copenhagen back in October 2021.