Nemoto Glass Edo Kiriko Rock Glass - Hana Barrel - Ink Black / 根本硝子工芸 華 樽型 薄墨

In the historic neighbourhood of Kameido, Tokyo, Nemoto Glass Crafts has spent more than six decades pursuing the extraordinary beauty of Edo Kiriko. Founded in 1959, this family workshop is now in its third generation, with a legacy built not only on preserving traditional techniques, but on continually challenging the limits of what can be achieved through hand-cut glass.

The story began with Yukio Nemoto, who entered his apprenticeship at just thirteen. Fascinated by the intricate kiku-tsunagi (chrysanthemum-link) pattern, he devoted himself to mastering one of Edo Kiriko's most demanding techniques. His dedication eventually earned him the Medal with Yellow Ribbon in 2009, making him the first Edo Kiriko artisan to receive this prestigious Japanese honour. His craftsmanship was also recognised through commissions from Japan's Imperial Household Agency and the Prime Minister's Office.

What sets Nemoto Glass Crafts apart is its uncompromising approach to every detail. Each pattern requires extraordinary precision, from the sharpness of its cuts to the delicate balance of light and shadow. Rather than relying on faster finishing methods, the workshop continues to polish its glass by hand, an exacting process that brings out exceptional clarity and brilliance. This pursuit of quality has also placed Nemoto among a very small number of workshops with access to rare crystal produced by Kagami Crystal, one of Japan's most prestigious crystal makers.

Today, Yukio's son Tatsuya and grandson Kosho continue to build upon this remarkable foundation. Both have earned prestigious recognition for their craftsmanship, while Kosho has brought a new artistic vision to the workshop under the philosophy "From Craft to Art." His works have attracted attention beyond the traditional craft world, appearing in luxury settings and collaborations that introduce Edo Kiriko to new audiences.

Despite their achievements, the family's guiding belief remains unchanged: never spare the effort required to create something truly meaningful. Every piece reflects this philosophy, bringing together generations of knowledge, an exceptional level of skill, and a sincere dedication to the art of glassmaking.

Hana Barrel — 華【樽型】 · The barrel-shaped Hana is the most elaborate glass in this collection. The upper half carries kiku-tsunagi (菊繋ぎ) cut at twice the density of the Naturally Class, while the lower half is cut with deep, bold lines — including a single continuous cut that sweeps from the side all the way to the base. The cuts carry right over the rim, and the ink-black (墨) colour is left in soft gradations, giving the glass the depth of a sumi-e ink painting. The ink-black colour on crystal is one the third generation, Kosho, made his own. A Luxury Class piece.

As every piece has its handmade feature, slight irregularities in size, shape, colour and texture might occur and reflect the nature of the artisan product.

◾ Handmade in Japan

◾ What's included? - One (1) Rock Glass in a wood gift box

◾ Material: Crystal glass

◾ Dimensions: Max Diameter 8.3 cm × Height 9.8 cm

◾ Capacity: 280 ml (comfortable) · 360 ml (to the brim)

◾ Care: Hand washing only; not suitable for dishwasher or microwave

◾ Packaging: Presented in a wood gift box