Yamada Glass Edo Kiriko Crystal Sake Glass - Flame 焔

Edo Kiriko (江戸切子)

Edo Kiriko is one of Japan’s most celebrated glass crafts, renowned for its precision, brilliance, and cultural depth. Its story began in 1834 (Tenpō 5), when Kaga-ya Kyubei, a glass merchant in Edo’s Odenmacho district, engraved the first delicate patterns onto glass using fine emery.

During the Meiji era, as Western techniques arrived in Japan, local artisans merged European cut-glass methods with Edo’s refined aesthetic sense. The result was a distinctly Japanese art form—elegant, luminous, and unmistakably Edo Kiriko. Today, this tradition is officially recognized as a Designated Traditional Craft by Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, safeguarding its heritage for future generations.

Precision Cutting & Luminous Luster

The beauty of Edo Kiriko lies in exacting detail. Artisans cut intricate geometric or nature-inspired patterns into colored overlay glass, shaving away the surface to reveal clear crystal beneath. Every line must be perfectly angled—too shallow, and the sparkle fades; too deep, and the structure weakens.

Achieving Edo Kiriko’s signature glow requires multiple stages of polishing by hand, transforming rough cuts into razor-sharp edges that catch and scatter light in dazzling refractions.

The process is unforgiving: even minor errors can ruin a piece. Apprentices may train for ten years or more before mastering the steadiness, pressure control, and sense of balance needed to produce flawless patterns.

Area of origin

Tokyo, Japan

Material

Crystal glass

Measurement

Diameter 6cm

Height 5.5cm

Content

One sake glass

Packaged in a signature Yamada wooden box, ensuring a memorable gift presentation

Care & Use

• For cold drinks only.
• Not heat-resistant or tempered glass.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes or impacts to prevent damage.
• Handle with care, as the glass is delicate.
• Hand wash gently with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Use a bundle brush for cleaning cut surfaces.
• Not safe for microwave use or exposure to open flames.

Note

Small air bubbles, slight color variations, and differences in thickness are inherent in handmade glass, reflecting its unique character and artisanal craftsmanship.