Edo Glassware Exudes History of Pre-Tokyo Era Through Vivid Colors in Tableware, Accessories
The traditional craft of Edo glassware continues to evolve and, despite its cool, refreshing appearance, emanates a warmth unique to handmade items. Tableware made using the craft comes in various colors, such as pale blue and pink, and diverse designs, such as plates shaped like flower petals.
Edo glassware exhibits the historical ambiance of the pre-Tokyo era through its vivid colors in tableware and accessories. This traditional craft, originating in Tokyo and Chiba Prefecture, utilizes manufacturing methods from the Edo period (1603-1867), earning it a designation as a traditional craft by the central government in 2014.
Tomi Glass Co., a Tokyo-based company, spearheads the creation of Edo Fairy, a line of Edo glassware tableware products. Designer Anna Okanami, 38, who hails from Mie Prefecture, was inspired to recreate the colorful scenery of Edo and its people's emotions. The glassware is fashioned by skilled artisans who pour molten glass into rotating molds, shape it centrifugally with colored powder, and craft each piece by hand.
This meticulous process imbues the tableware with a unique warmth and coolness. The Edo Fairy series, launched in 2023, consists of items like flower petal-shaped plates, somen noodle bowls, and chopstick rests, showcasing shades of pale red, blue, and yellow. These pieces are ideal for both Japanese and Western cuisines. The Ukiyo series, characterized by indigo and light blue shades with purple and pink spots, further emphasizes Edo-period scenery and lifestyle.
Despite the technical expertise required for production, challenges such as a dwindling artisan workforce and the presence of cheap foreign products exist. To address this, Tomi Glass transforms imperfect pieces into jewelry, reflecting the inherent beauty of the craft. Okanami expresses her hope for people to embrace and appreciate these traditional craft pieces, encouraging them to wear and enjoy them.
Written by urgent.news from The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
