Fine Japanese glassware known around the globe

　 The countless engravings in Edo kiriko glass beautifully diffuse light, which varies depending on the angle and the light being reflected. With a history stretching some 400 years, pieces of this traditional Japanese craft were selected to be one of the gifts for state guests at the 2008 summit held in Toyako, Japan. One of the characteristics of Edo kiriko glass is the contrast between transparency and colour. Double-layered tinted glass consisting of transparent glass coated with coloured glass in hues such as ruri lapis blue and do-aka deep red, is cut using a diamond grinding wheel and water to create the clear and coloured parts. The traditional patterns cut into the glass, which are beloved by the people of ancient and modern Tokyo, make each piece a delight to hold. The patterns even contain their own meaning, including prosperity, and protection from bad luck.

Traditional techniques to create strong, beautiful glass

　Hanashyo, the company that produced the gifts for the summit, has been honing its techniques for three generations. Takayuki Kumakura, the third-generation head of Hanashyo, says that originality, delicacy, and polish are their three mottos. In addition to introducing the idea of incorporating Edo patterns into their cuts, the second-generation head of Hanashyo created a new pattern called "Kome Tsunagi" (rice-links). ---merged with above--- The rice-link cuts cover the entire face of the glass and offer an almost rhythmic feeling.

　 With "strong Edo kiriko glass for everyday use" as its creed, Hanashyo uses only carefully selected materials and techniques for its glass. Staying away from crystal glass that uses lead oxide, they exclusively use soda glass, which is mainly comprised of natural sand. Takayuki explains, "Soda glass is both lightweight and easy to hold, making it ideal for drinking glasses". Additionally, when polishing the surface of the cuts to increase transparency, they avoid the now common technique of finishing the glass with chemicals such as sulphuric acid and instead polish everything by hand. Although it is a time-consuming process, this process allows the artisans to add minute patterns with fine grooves and delicate tints, such as pale purple, all of which are fortes of Hanashyo. Unlike chemical finishes, which require delicate handling, Hanashyo's finishes are strong enough to withstand washing with scrubbing brushes. Made using traditional techniques, Edo kiriko glass is something that will always brighten your day, even after many, many uses.