*This article is a re-edited version of content posted on Muromachi Glass Craft in 2023.

Edo Kiriko is crafted one by one by artisans. Among them, larger Edo Kiriko pieces such as bowls, vases, and large plates are created as "one-of-a-kind" works. These pieces are often made for exhibitions, displays, or custom orders. What do they mean to the artisans who create them?

Here, we ask an artisan who creates such one-of-a-kind "works" about their thoughts on their creations and the process. This time, we spoke with Yoshiro Kobayashi, the third-generation owner of "Kobayashi Glass Craft," founded in 1908.

"Mirai" by Yoshiro Kobayashi

Mr. Kobayashi, born in 1950, is 70 years old. After graduating from Meiji University, he apprenticed under his father, Hideo, the second-generation owner, and has been dedicated to Edo Kiriko ever since. His technique is designated as an intangible cultural property of Koto Ward, and he is renowned for his luxurious all-over patterns with intricate cuts.

This "Mirai" is a large bowl, 33cm in diameter and 19cm high. It was also exhibited at a joint exhibition with his son Kohei, held at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi in August 2020.

"I wanted to try making the 'Urokomon' (scale pattern), a basic Edo Kiriko pattern, on a large piece for once."

The "Urokomon" pattern features continuously and evenly applied "Yarai" (arrow pattern), a traditional design of intersecting straight lines. In "Mirai," applying this pattern to transparent glass fabric creates variations in the shadows cast by light and contents, as well as reflections on the protrusions. This allows for the enjoyment of various expressions.

Mr. Kobayashi says, "I can't make large pieces anymore. It takes mental and physical strength." However, his stoicism is well-known among artisans. The amount of time and physical effort he puts into cutting must be considerable. It's understandable that he finds it difficult to readily talk about his enthusiasm for new works.

Edo Kiriko, imbued with intense effort and passion, touches the hearts of those who behold it.

Q & A

——Does creating a "work" hold special significance for an Edo Kiriko artisan?

"If you only make small items like sake cups or old-fashioned glasses, your skills won't improve. Creating 'large pieces' requires many times more skill. I think it's important to make many 'large pieces' when you're young, if possible."

——Do your feelings and process differ when creating items that fit in the palm of your hand, such as glasses or sake cups?

"Yes, they do. When there's weight involved, it's not as easy to manipulate while cutting. I believe that's where the difference in skill truly shows."

——What do you want to convey through your "works"?

"'Large pieces' challenge one's design capabilities. Also, if a vase is heavy, it requires strength just to hold it. With large pieces that have intricate patterns, work is interrupted for about two minutes, then resumed after a two-minute break, repeating this cycle. It takes a lot of physical strength and time."

——Please tell us what you want people to feel when they see "Mirai."

"I just want them to look at it carefully. And if they someday realize it was a good piece, that's enough for me."

 

Yoshiro Kobayashi
Born in Tokyo in 1950. From 1973, he apprenticed under his father Hideo, the second-generation owner of "Kobayashi Glass Craft." In 1981, he was first selected for the "Japan Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition." Since then, he has received numerous awards and has dedicated himself to promoting and spreading awareness of Edo Kiriko. Currently, he manages the workshop with his son Kohei, the fourth-generation owner.

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