Introducing Ensis, a collaboration of materials and craft
The Ensis bag is the result of a collaboration between Lies Mertens and designer Jonas Van Put, combining the precision of leatherworking with the sculptural approach of furniture design. Following the Oyster bag, this first edition of 30 numbered pieces introduces a new chapter in our Shell Collection. Its wooden handle, crafted from Belgian oak and individually hand-filed, was inspired by slender form of a razor clam, also known as Ensis. The bag itself is formed from two sculpted leather halves coming together like a closing shell.
We shot this campaign at my home, a place that started as a side project called Patina a few years ago. Living in Brussels, working in Antwerp and running a guesthouse, all things I loved, but together they became a maze of too many interests. Patina began as a way to work with what was already there, to reuse materials and create objects for daily life. Objects that can stand the test of time. During the month where the guesthouse was turned into a house again, we photographed this campaign.
Discover the new collection as it moves through the house, introducing red wood and sage, in reference to the materials and colours that fill Patina.
a glimpse into production
We design and develop our bags in Antwerp. Once finalised, they are made in two small-scale ateliers: one in Italy, and one in Kortrijk with a production atelier in Tunisia.
In Northern Italy, we work with Franco and his team. It is a place where skill is shared in gestures rather than words. You can watch the full video below.
Flagship store Antwerp:
Lies Mertens
Steenhouwersvest 6,
2000 Antwerpen
Belgium
Flagship store Antwerp:
Lies Mertens
Steenhouwersvest 6,
2000 Antwerpen
Belgium
