Each piece of Edo Kiriko is handcrafted by artisans. Among them, large Edo Kiriko pieces such as bowls, vases, and large plates, as well as Edo Kiriko with free cuts that are not bound by traditional patterns, are created as "one-of-a-kind" pieces. These pieces, often made for exhibitions or custom orders, hold a special meaning for the artisans.

Here, we ask artisans who create such one-of-a-kind "works" about their thoughts on their creations and the process of making them. This time, we feature Kei Hosokoji, a traditional craftsman from "Mitsuwa Glass Craft" who is dedicated to his work and his creations.

"Flower and Butterfly" by Kei Hosokoji

In a previous interview, Hosokoji-san said, "Edo Kiriko is a part of my life. It's something I love, and it's also my job. So, there's no boundary between my own works and products." He believes that his works should not so much reflect his own feelings, but rather become something that many people feel is "good," something that resonates with their emotions.

This "Flower and Butterfly" piece won the Tokyo Metropolitan Governor's Award at the 26th "Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition." The beauty of the motif, as well as the delicacy of its idea and perspective, is breathtaking.

"Blue is a color that feels cold, but I wanted to express the warmth of spring in a scene with flowers and a butterfly. First, I removed all the surrounding color of the motif with cuts, creating a transparent finish. Furthermore, by engraving the small sparkles of chrysanthemum patterns, I aimed for a warmer piece."

The "Flower and Butterfly" piece was inspired by the emotion felt when looking at a butterfly perched on a flower through a camera, and when seeing the beauty of a blue butterfly in a photograph. It took about a month to create, but because the color in the cut areas disappears and becomes transparent during the final polishing, he himself didn't know the final outcome until the very end.

Edo Kiriko, in a sense, is like a living creature, unpredictable even to its creator, and sometimes possesses a startling beauty.

Q & A


——Does creating "large pieces" hold a special meaning for an Edo Kiriko artisan?

"Since they are one-of-a-kind and I can design them as I like, I can challenge myself with difficult expressions that take time. Therefore, my current skills and values are reflected, so you could say that by looking at the work, you can understand the artisan."

——Is your mindset and process different when making items that fit in the palm of your hand, such as glasses or sake cups?

"Basically, when making glasses or sake cups, which are often produced as commercial products, I prioritize efficiency and careful consideration in my work."

——What do you want to convey through "large pieces"?

"I am challenging myself with new expressions. I want people to see realistic expressions that are unlike anything else."

——Please tell us what you would like to try with "large pieces" in the future.

"I don't have anything specific in mind yet, but I want to try new things. I believe there is still a lot of potential for expression in glass."

Kei Hosokoji
Born in Okayama Prefecture in 1982. He works at Mitsuwa Glass Craft, established in 1971, alongside young Edo Kiriko artisans in their 20s and 30s, dedicated to manufacturing and creating works. In 2009, he received an honorable mention at the "Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition." In 2019, he was certified as a traditional craftsman of Japan.

※This article was written in 2023. Some products may be out of stock. Please inquire about availability.