The Heritage of Edo Kiriko (江戸切子)
The origins of Edo Kiriko date back to 1834 in the late Edo Period (modern-day Tokyo), when a glass merchant named Kagaya Kyubei began engraving intricate patterns onto glass surfaces using emery sand.
Over nearly two centuries, the craft evolved by blending traditional Japanese motifs with advanced European glass-cutting techniques introduced during the Meiji era. Recognized officially by the Japanese government as a National Traditional Craft, Edo Kiriko is celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking geometric precision, sharp refractive clarity, and fluid interplay of light. Unlike modern mass-produced glassware, every authentic piece carries the unique soul, rhythm, and patience of a master artisan's hands.
Meet the Maker: Master Craftsman
Every Koi Dual-Tone glass is brought to life in a specialized workshop by a dedicated master artisan. In the world of traditional Japanese glasswork, it takes a minimum of 十载 (ten years) of rigorous training just to be recognized as an independent craftsman.
Our master artisan guides each multi-layered glass through a grueling journey:
- Waridashi (Guidelines): Hand-marking precision horizontal and vertical axes directly onto the curved, dual-colored surface.
- Arazuri (Rough Cutting): Using a coarse diamond wheel to slice through the colored outer layers, carving out the fluid shape of the Koi and the surrounding water motifs.
- Sanbankake (Refined Engraving): Painstakingly tracing the intricate scales, fins, and geometric refractions with fine abrasive wheels to achieve sharp, flawless definitions.
- Migaki & Bafugake (The 1,500-Step Polish): Utilizing traditional wooden wheels and soft cotton buffing cloths with rare polishing minerals to smooth every cut surface, unlocking a dazzling, crystal-clear luster.
"There is no machine in the world that can duplicate the judgment of a craftsman's eye and the delicate pressure of their hands against the wheel. A single millimeter off, and the entire glass must be discarded." — Master Artisan
