Hiroyuki Murata has been in Italy for 15 years. He initially learnt to be a leather craftsman in Japan, after studying architecture at university. He wanted to create items with his hands, integrating lines and structures inspired by architecture.

"I loved big practical bags, tote bags, thick canvas bags", he explains. "Today, we create much finer works, inspired by the French style. I believe they combine a certain idea of elegance with practical considerations"

Hiroyuki Murata worked for Felisi when he first arrived in Italy – a leather company based in Ferrara which in particular produces backpacks for Anderson & Sheppard in London.

Nowadays, he is self-employed under the trade name Saic Firenze. His works are regularly featured in specialised media such as The Rake or Permanent Style