#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Art & Design #ZANAT #Handcrafted Furniture

ZANAT Exhibition: A Century-Old Story of Handcrafted Furniture from Bosnia

From May 27 to June 23, 2026, Actus Shinsaibashi will host the captivating ZANAT Exhibition: A Century of Handcrafted Furniture from Bosnia as part of the Osaka Art & Design 2026 event. This exhibition showcases the exceptional woodworking techniques of ZANAT, a brand rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has recently been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Resilience of Craftsmanship

The term ZANAT means “craft” in Bosnian, and its legacy dates back to the late 19th century when the great-grandfather of current owner Orhan Niksic acquired pioneering wood carving skills in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In 1919, his sons established a workshop in the town of Konjic, and since then, the family has devotedly produced hand-carved furniture across four generations.

This remarkable journey has not been without challenges. The family faced adversity during World War II and the Bosnian conflict of the 1990s, which threatened their craft's very existence. Yet, they persevered, ensuring that their artistry and traditions would survive into the present, culminating in the 2017 recognition of ZANAT's woodworking techniques as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Fusion of Unique Handcraft and Global Design

ZANAT’s identity is not solely about the preservation of traditional techniques; instead, it embraces innovation by adapting those artisanal skills to modern lifestyles. Orhan Niksic believes that rather than discarding traditional craftsmanship for modern living, one can find ways to incorporate modernity into the very essence of the craft itself. This philosophy forms the backbone of ZANAT's collaborations with renowned designers like Naoto Fukasawa, Monica Förster, and Patrick Norguet. Their combined efforts have borne fruit in the creation of furniture that not only retains a tactile beauty but also embodies a distinct, modern sensibility that appeals emotionally to the observer.

Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to explore a selection of ZANAT’s masterpieces that blend rich history with innovative approaches.

Noteworthy Collections on Display

MOSTAR STOOL

Inspired by the ancient bridge of Mostar, this modern stool features a primitive sculpture aesthetic, elegantly arching legs that symbolize connections, and intricate hand-carved detailing that showcases the artisans' skills.
Dimensions: W30 x D30 x H45 cm | Material: Walnut | Price: ¥345,400

KORZO DINING TABLE

This dining table combines sturdy metal legs with a tabletop shaped with gentle carvings, merging elegance and warmth suitable for any dining space.
Dimensions: Φ69.7 x H74 cm | Material: Oak, Bronze | Price: ¥393,800

NERA COFFEE TABLE

Renowned for its duality, this coffee table features a smoky glass top resting atop a beautifully hand-carved base, standing as a striking centerpiece for any room.
Dimensions: High type - W45 x D45 x H44 cm | Low type - W62 x D68 x H35 cm | Material: Walnut | Price: ¥302,500 – ¥399,300

SAVA ARM CHAIR

This chair combines a crescent-shaped, curved backrest with a cushioned seat, incorporating subtle carvings on the arm's back for an enjoyable tactile experience.
Dimensions: W60 x D48.5 x H74 | Material: Oak | Price: ¥394,900

This exhibition features many more unique ZANAT products for viewing and purchase.

Event Information

• - Exhibition Title: ZANAT Exhibition: A Century of Handcrafted Furniture from Bosnia
• - Duration: May 27, 2026 (Wednesday) – June 23, 2026 (Tuesday) Closed on June 16 (Tuesday)
• - Location: Actus Shinsaibashi Store

1F Midousuji Building, 1-4-5 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free

About Osaka Art & Design 2026

Osaka Art & Design is a city-wide event exploring hidden art and design gems across Osaka. This year's theme, Infinitize – Unleashing Creativity, spans major areas and includes works from both local and international creators exhibited in various venues, including department stores, galleries, and design shops.

For more information, visit Osaka Art & Design Official Site.

Actus Inc. seeks to offer more than mere products but instead aims to foster a meaningful connection between creators and consumers, building an enriching lifestyle experience. Since its establishment in 1969, it has brought European modern interior design into Japan while emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in its supply chain.

Company: Actus Inc.
CEO: Ken Murata
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