Ootomo Glassware

Edo Kiriko glass, named after Edo (today's Tokyo), has a history dating back to 1824 when Yubei Kagaya began experimenting with carving patterns into glass surfaces. This craft became intertwined with urban culture and underwent significant development in the mid-19th century. During this time, Western tools and techniques were incorporated alongside traditional methods, a fusion that continues to be upheld today.

Skilled glassblowers shape clear glass into thin colored layers, then rotate them in the air to achieve the desired form. The resulting glassware consists of two layers: colored on the outside and clear on the inside. Using various stones, artisans intricately carve designs onto the outer layer, creating a striking contrast between the vibrant colors and the transparent inner layer.