Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese art. This is the first time for me to experience making Edo Kiriko.
What is Edo Kiriko?
Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese glass art. The technique originated in the Edo period (1603-1868) and developed in Tokyo (formerly known as Edo). Edo Kiriko is characterized by fine cuts made in colored or colorless glass. These cuts usually form geometric patterns or Japanese-style flower, bird, wind, and moon designs.
In the manufacturing process, the glass is first blown and formed, then fine cuts are made on the surface using special tools. Known for its delicate handwork and intricate designs, Edo Kiriko provides a beautiful accent in traditional Japanese tabletop and interior decorating.
Today, Edo Kiriko is highly regarded as part of Japan’s cultural heritage and is collected both in Japan and abroad. New pieces incorporating traditional techniques into contemporary designs are also emerging, attracting attention as works of art that fuse tradition and innovation.
Edo Kiriko school in Asakusa
This time, I made glasses at the Edo Kiriko school in Asakusa.
First, you look at samples and decide which glass you like.
There are a variety of sizes, from large to small.
There are many colors to choose from, including transparent, pink, and blue,
It is hard to decide which color to choose.
Next, while looking at the samples, I decided on the pattern I wanted to dig.
I had done my research beforehand, but everything I looked for was difficult!
I was told, “All the ones I looked for are difficult! I was told that everything I looked for was too difficult, so I ended up making something simple.
It’s amazing what a professional can do, isn’t it?
After deciding on a sample, we started the actual work!
First, we actually dig into the sample glass.
The work is detailed and exciting.
After practicing a few times, we start for the real thing.
For the real work, first draw lines with a pen according to the pattern you want to write.
Then, I dust it off in line with the lines.
The teacher will give you advice, and if you feel uneasy, he or she will help you to do it together.
The teacher here was full of humor,I enjoyed digging very much.
The time we spent doing it was about an hour.It was a very short time.
And at the end of the tour, they take your picture.
There is a spot to take pictures of only the glasses,I was able to take a beautiful picture of the glass I made!
