Edo kiriko

Edo kiriko (江戸切子) is a style of cut glass, now a traditional Japanese craft. It originated in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the 19th century and is renowned for its clear, intricately cut glass displaying bold geometric patterns.

Edo kiriko was first produced in 1834 by Kagaya Kyūbei, a glassware merchant in Edo. In 1873, a Western-style glassworks was established in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and in 1881 British glass expert Emmanuel Hauptmann was invited to Japan to introduce advanced European techniques. These developments led to the refinement of Edo kiriko, and its pieces were subsequently showcased at international expositions, earning global recognition. As the techniques for cutting and polishing developed, the quality of Edo kiriko improved steadily, reaching the height of its popularity in the early years of the 20th century.

The manufacturing process of Edo kiriko involves six main stages, which are typically carried out in a single, continuous process. First, the colored glass overlay is blown over a clear inner layer. Next, the design is marked on the glass using red iron oxide pigment, followed by a rough cutting of the pattern on a grinding wheel with a water-sand mixture as a lubricant. This is then refined by detailed cutting with a fine abrasive or diamond wheel. From there the glass is first polished with a whetstone and finished with a wooden wheel using polishing powders. Combined, this process produces the characteristic brilliance and clarity of Edo kiriko.

Among the traditional patterns of Edo kiriko, the Nanako (魚子) design is particularly renowned. This pattern, resembling fish eggs, is created by carving intersecting thin lines that produce a shimmering effect on the glass surface.