Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese craft where skilled Kiriko artisans meticulously cut traditional patterns into glass blanks, one by one. Even if the designs are the same, no two pieces are exactly alike anywhere in the world, making it a traditional craft Japan can be proud of.

Among these, large-sized Edo Kiriko pieces such as bowls, vases, and large plates are created as "one-of-a-kind" works. These are often made for exhibition at art shows or for custom orders, and one wonders what they mean to the artisans. Here, we ask artisans who create these "one-of-a-kind" pieces about their work and their thoughts on its creation.

This time, we interviewed Kei Hosokoji, a certified traditional craftsman and artisan at "Mitsuwa Glass Craft." We'll share the story behind the piece that won the Director-General's Award from the Kanto Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry at the "33rd Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition" in 2021, an exhibition showcasing the energetic works of young artisans.

"Chrysanthemum Arabesque Mizusashi" by Kei Hosokoji

"I don't want to be an artist; I want to be an Edo Kiriko craftsman and a designer," says Hosokoji. "Therefore, I hope that the pieces I create will be something that many people find 'good' and that will enrich their lives." He explains that his creative process begins with considering what customers seek and what kind of Edo Kiriko is needed for modern living.

One such new world from Hosokoji is the "Chrysanthemum Arabesque Mizusashi." It is a piece adorned with dynamic curves of arabesque patterns and delicate cuts of connected chrysanthemums. Looking inside, a large flower blossoms at the bottom.

"With this 'Chrysanthemum Arabesque Mizusashi,' I aimed to create a piece that would blend into the space when displayed, making the place and time feel richer and more valuable. Since I had the glass blank first, I thought about what would suit its shape and color, and spent about a month creating it.

The arabesque pattern was probably the most challenging. I thought that smaller curves in the pattern would be more beautiful and balanced for the shape and color of this glass, so I bent them to the very limit of what I could achieve with Kiriko. By doing so, the overall piece gains elegance."

Hosokoji also says, "I hope people can feel it as they see it, without preconceived notions." He wants viewers to enjoy imagining how their living space might change by adding this piece.

Hosokoji's Edo Kiriko pieces combine boldness and intricacy, incorporating traditional patterns yet imparting a somewhat modern impression. Please take your time and enjoy them.

Q & A

——Please tell us what challenges you'd like to take on with your future "works."

"Actually, I haven't specifically decided what to challenge yet. But this piece was one of my challenges. I want to continue creating works that no one has ever made before, and to generate new value."

Kei Hosokoji
Born in Okayama Prefecture in 1982. At the "Mitsuwa Glass Craft" workshop, founded in 1971, he is dedicated to manufacturing and creating works alongside young Edo Kiriko artisans in their 20s and 30s. 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 no longer be available. Please inquire for availability.