Edo Kiriko is highly valued both domestically and internationally for its delicate designs and transparency created through beautiful cutting techniques. Used as both everyday vessels and interior decor, Edo Kiriko has continued to develop its techniques since its birth in the Edo period.
Through this article, we hope you will discover the deep appeal and background of Edo Kiriko and further appreciate its beauty.
What is Edo Kiriko?
Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese craft, referring to beautiful glass products made using cut glass techniques. It developed in Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the late Edo period and is characterized by precise cutting techniques and delicate designs. Edo Kiriko is still produced by many artisans today and is highly valued both domestically and internationally.
The beautiful patterns and light reflections created by cutting transparent or colored glass are a major attraction of Edo Kiriko. While maintaining traditional designs, it is also used as modern interior decor and tableware, continuing to be loved as one of Japan’s symbolic crafts.
Characteristics and Appeal of Edo Kiriko
The most distinctive feature of Edo Kiriko is its beautiful patterns and light reflections created by intricate cutting techniques. Cutting the glass creates various geometric patterns, and the contrast of light and shadow, particularly when light hits it, enhances its visual beauty.
Edo Kiriko typically uses two types of glass called “transparent glass” and “color-coated glass.” Color-coated glass is created by layering colored glass over transparent glass, and when cut, the surface colored glass is removed to expose the transparent glass underneath. This creates a unique beauty combining two layers of color.
Furthermore, the appeal of Edo Kiriko lies in its artistry. More than just tableware or decorative items, pieces created by skilled artisans are filled with the warmth of handwork and fine details that move viewers.
Edo Kiriko Designs and Cutting Techniques
Edo Kiriko designs are a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and intricate cutting techniques. Representative patterns include “kikutunagi” (chrysanthemum chain), “yarai” (fence), and “asanoha” (hemp leaf), all of which are simple yet powerful geometric designs.
Kikutunagi Pattern
A design cut to represent continuous chrysanthemum flowers, symbolizing longevity and containing the meaning of “joy continuing for a long time.”
Yarai Pattern
A lattice pattern of intersecting straight cuts imagining a fence made of bamboo or logs, said to have the meaning of warding off evil.
Asanoha Pattern
A geometric pattern of hexagons based on the fast-growing hemp leaf, symbolizing health and growth, considered an auspicious design.
These patterns are cut one by one by skilled artisans through handwork. The depth and angle of cuts all depend on the artisan’s skill, and even the same design can have subtle differences in expression depending on the artisan.
A “manual grinder” is used for cutting, requiring precision. Artisans finely adjust the cutting pressure and angle, creating patterns with millimeter-level precision. This skilled craftsmanship supports the high artistry of Edo Kiriko.
Uses and Daily Applications of Edo Kiriko
Edo Kiriko plays a role in many aspects of daily life. Due to its elegant design and pleasant texture, it is particularly popular as tableware and drinking vessels. For example, Edo Kiriko glasses are used for enjoying alcoholic beverages such as sake, whiskey, and wine, with their beautiful cuts enhancing the color of the drink and creating a special experience.
Moreover, Edo Kiriko is used as tableware such as rice bowls and small bowls, enhancing the presentation of dishes. Beyond its role as traditional Japanese tableware, it works well with Western cuisine and modern table settings, used for a wide range of purposes.
Furthermore, the beauty of Edo Kiriko is also valued as interior decor, popular as decorative items such as vases and candle holders. The crystal sparkle shimmers when catching light, giving the entire room elegance and tranquility.
Reasons Why Edo Kiriko is Valued
There are several reasons why Edo Kiriko is highly valued:
- Advanced artisan skills
- Beauty of design
- Balance of practicality and artistry
- Light reflection effects
The cutting techniques in Edo Kiriko require skilled craftsmanship, and since each piece is handmade by artisans, its precision and beauty stand out compared to other crafts. Additionally, the designs incorporating traditional Japanese patterns have been loved for generations, possessing a simple yet sophisticated beauty.
These combined elements make Edo Kiriko highly valued by enthusiasts both domestically and internationally. It also attracts attention at overseas museums and exhibitions, known worldwide as one of Japan’s representative crafts.
Modern Development of Edo Kiriko
In modern times, while preserving tradition, Edo Kiriko has introduced products incorporating new techniques and designs. For example, alongside traditional colored glass, works featuring modern color variations and more modern cut designs are being created. This has led to an increase in Edo Kiriko pieces adapted to modern lifestyles in addition to traditional uses.
Moreover, young artisans are taking on new challenges, creating works combining traditional patterns with modern designs and collaborating with fashion items. Furthermore, jewelry and accessories using Edo Kiriko techniques are also gaining popularity.
Therefore, Edo Kiriko is very popular as a gift due to its historical value and beauty, often chosen as presents for special occasions or as souvenirs for overseas visitors. Its development is progressing in new forms incorporating modern designs, not just as a traditional craft.
History and Origins of Edo Kiriko
Edo Kiriko is a traditional technique with a particularly long history among Japanese glass crafts. Born in the Edo period, it has been passed down to the present day through technological innovations and international recognition after the Meiji period.
Here, we will explain in detail the history from the origins to the development of Edo Kiriko.
Birth and Development of Edo Kiriko
The origins of Edo Kiriko date back to 1834 (Tempō 5). It began when Kagaya Kyūbei, who ran a glass shop in Edo (present-day Tokyo), applied cutting techniques to glass using diamond sand. The “Edo Kiriko” created by Kyūbei pursued the beauty of European glass craft by incorporating cut glass techniques that were rare in Japan at the time.
Early Edo Kiriko featured many simple geometric and lattice patterns, and its beauty was widely supported by both commoners and samurai in Edo. The cutting techniques of Edo Kiriko were further refined by skilled artisans, and from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period, more complex and intricate designs were created.
Development of Glass Craft Techniques into Luxury Items
During the Edo period, glass craft gradually developed in Japan, and Edo (present-day Tokyo) was one of the regions where glass production flourished. At the time, glass products were familiar to commoners as accessible decorative items. Furthermore, with the introduction of cut glass techniques from Europe, cutting methods like Edo Kiriko were incorporated.
Glass shaping mainly used “hand-blown glass” techniques, where artisans would blow air into heated glass to shape it. In Edo Kiriko, cuts are made on the surface of this blown glass using manual grinders.
By the end of the Edo period, Edo Kiriko techniques had matured and began to be valued as luxury items even among commoners.
Evolution of Edo Kiriko After the Meiji Period
Entering the Meiji period, Japan opened to the world and came under strong Western cultural influence. During this period, glass production techniques rapidly evolved, particularly with the introduction of colored glass technology.
Not only transparent glass but also color-coated glass in red, blue, green, and other colors became widespread, and Edo Kiriko cutting techniques diversified. This technological innovation led to the development of cutting techniques that created patterns by removing the surface of colored glass.
Moreover, Japanese crafts were introduced overseas through various world expositions, and Edo Kiriko received high acclaim in Europe and America as part of this. Through this exchange, demand for Edo Kiriko increased both domestically and internationally, and while fusing with Western cut glass techniques, it maintained its uniquely Japanese aesthetic sense and increased its artistic value as a craft.
Furthermore, backed by the Meiji government’s industrial promotion policies, Edo Kiriko introduced new techniques and designs, spreading among commoners. Due to the technological innovations and increased demand during this period, Edo Kiriko has continued to be highly valued domestically and internationally, becoming a popular craft.
Post-war Revival and Reevaluation of Edo Kiriko
After World War II, Japanese industries and traditional crafts faced numerous difficulties, and Edo Kiriko was no exception. During the war, production drastically decreased due to material shortages and a decline in artisans.
However, entering the post-war recovery period, Edo Kiriko’s revival progressed, triggered by glass product orders from GHQ and the development of tourism. Later, in the 1960s, with the influence of the high economic growth period, Western lifestyles became widespread, and Edo Kiriko became popular souvenirs for domestic and international tourists.
Moreover, beyond inheriting traditional designs, new shapes and cutting techniques adapted to modern lifestyles were incorporated, further expanding the diversity of Edo Kiriko. Around 1965, the name “Edo Kiriko” was unified, and after being designated as a Tokyo Traditional Craft in 1985, its recognition increased both domestically and internationally through branding.
Modern Inheritance and Innovation of Edo Kiriko
Modern Edo Kiriko continues to innovate while preserving traditional techniques. While traditional cutting techniques like chrysanthemum and fence patterns remain important, young artisans are incorporating new designs and techniques, creating products suited to modern lifestyles.
Products with color variations and modern shapes have emerged, playing active roles in a wide range of scenes as tableware and interior decor. Additionally, modern Edo Kiriko has increased international recognition and is popular in overseas markets.
It has established its position as a traditional craft, with its artistry and technical skill recognized worldwide through international design awards. Furthermore, while innovative approaches such as the introduction of digital technology and the use of new materials are progressing, Edo Kiriko artisans are connecting their appeal to the next generation while preserving the “warmth of handwork.”
Production Method of Edo Kiriko
The beauty of Edo Kiriko is supported by the cutting techniques of skilled artisans’ handwork and high technology created through precise processes. Through several careful processes from glass selection to pattern engraving, polishing, and finishing, the unique sparkle and patterns of Edo Kiriko are created.
Here, we will explain in detail the production method of Edo Kiriko.
Edo Kiriko Production Centers on Artisans’ Handwork
The production of Edo Kiriko focuses on artisans’ handwork rather than mechanized mass production. Below is the flow of traditional
production processes:
- Material selection
- Shaping
- Cutting
- Polishing
Thus, completing one piece of Edo Kiriko requires numerous manual processes and time. Therefore, it is highly valued for its handmade warmth and uniqueness as one-of-a-kind pieces.
Glass Material Selection Changes the Characteristics of Edo Kiriko
The materials used in Edo Kiriko include “transparent glass” and “color-coated glass.” Transparent glass is colorless and clear, creating sparkle through light reflection on cut surfaces. On the other hand, color-coated glass has a double structure with a thin layer of colored glass over transparent glass, and when cut, the inner transparent glass appears, creating enjoyable vivid color contrasts.
Crystal glass containing lead is often used in Edo Kiriko products. Crystal glass is soft and easy to cut and polish, making it suitable for engraving fine patterns. Furthermore, it has a high refractive index, giving products a unique sparkle.
Soda glass is also sometimes used, but being harder and lighter than crystal glass, and more affordable, it is often used in more casual products.
Overall, Edo Kiriko using crystal glass has a luxurious feel and is characterized by delicate sparkle. Meanwhile, pieces using soda glass are easier to use in daily life and are familiar in many situations.
Cutting Techniques and Pattern Engraving Methods
The cut patterns, which are the most distinctive feature of Edo Kiriko, are carefully applied one by one through artisans’ handwork. The cutting technique follows mainly these steps:
Determining the Pattern Design
First, the Edo Kiriko design is determined. While traditional patterns include “chrysanthemum patterns” and “hemp leaf patterns,” new designs are also being incorporated in modern times.
Pattern Layout (Division)
Pattern guidelines are drawn on the glass surface. This work, also called “division,” is carefully designed to ensure cutting precision. The layout is a very important process as it serves as the foundation for cutting, allowing artisans to proceed accurately.
Cutting Work
Using manual grinders or diamond wheels, patterns are cut into the glass surface. Artisans hold the glass in their hands and carefully grind it against the grinder. The angle and depth of cutting are fine-tuned based on the artisan’s experience, determining the dimensionality of the pattern and light reflection.
Types of cuts include straight “line cutting,” round “circle cutting,” and fine “mesh cutting,” which are combined to create complex patterns. Edo Kiriko cutting techniques require extremely precise and advanced skills, demanding millimeter-level accuracy.
Glass Polishing and Finishing Techniques
After cutting work is completed, the glass undergoes polishing as the cut surfaces are still rough. Through polishing, the cut surfaces become smooth, and the glass’s beauty is further enhanced as it develops luster.
- Rough Polishing: Initially, the cut surfaces are roughly polished to remove major unevenness and roughness. This makes the patterns emerge.
- Medium Polishing: Next, using polishing agents, fine polishing is performed. The cut surfaces become smoother, allowing light to reflect uniformly.
- Final Polishing: Lastly, using very fine polishing agents, final polishing is performed, giving the glass surface a glossy finish. In this final process, the characteristic sparkle of Edo Kiriko is completed.
The finishing incorporates much handwork by artisans, aiming for uniform finishing while creating different flavors in each piece.
Summary
Edo Kiriko is a craft using traditional Japanese cut glass techniques that have continued since the Edo period. Each piece of Edo Kiriko, carefully created through artisans’ handwork, is characterized by its beautiful cut patterns and sparkle.
The production method involves many processes to completion, including glass material selection, precise cutting techniques, and polishing finishes. Edo Kiriko continues to maintain new appeal while inheriting traditional techniques and fusing with modern designs and technology.
