Satsuma Kiriko Bowl: A Jewel of Japanese Cut Glass from the Edo Period

The Satsuma Kiriko bowl is a stunning example of Japanese cut glass craftsmanship that emerged during the late Edo period. This article delves into the rich history and intricate artistry behind Satsuma Kiriko glassware, highlighting its unique features, cultural significance, and enduring legacy.

Historical Context

Satsuma Kiriko glass production began in 1846 under the auspices of Shimazu Narioki, the 27th daimyo of the Satsuma domain (now Kagoshima Prefecture). Nariakira Shimazu’s successor played a pivotal role in transforming Satsuma glass production into an art form. He introduced modern techniques that led to creating vibrant and intricate glass pieces, such as the renowned “Crimson Glass of Satsuma.”

The production of Satsuma Kiriko glass was unfortunately short-lived. The craft fell into decline following Nariakira’s untimely death in 1858 and the subsequent Anglo-Satsuma War in 1863. It wasn’t until a century later, in 1985, that efforts to revive Satsuma Kiriko glassware began, led by Shimadzu Limited and supported by the Kagoshima prefectural government.

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Craftsmanship and Design

Satsuma Kiriko glassware is distinguished by its thick glass and the technique of layering coloured glass over clear glass. This method allows for intricate carvings and beautiful colour gradations, which are achieved by varying the depth of the cuts. For example, the boat-shaped Satsuma Kiriko bowl features an indigo-blue overlay that has been meticulously ground and polished to create stunning visual effects.

In the case of the boat-shaped bowl adorned with a bat motif, the blue overlay has been completely removed from the bat’s wings, resulting in a striking contrast between the clear and coloured sections. The bat, an auspicious symbol in Chinese culture due to its homophony with “good fortune,” adds a layer of cultural significance to the piece. The bowl’s body, ground into a convex lens shape, enhances the colour gradations, making the blue hues appear even more vibrant.

Techniques and Stages of Production

The creation of Satsuma Kiriko glassware involves several meticulous stages:

1. Atari: Drawing the pattern onto the glass with a permanent marker.
2. Ara-kezuri: Roughly cutting the design using a diamond wheel.
3. Ishi-kake: Finely carving the design with a grindstone.
4. Kiban-migaki: Polishing the surfaces and lines on a paulownia wheel.
5. Burashi-migaki: Further polishing the surface with a brush wheel.
6. Bafu-shiage: Final polishing on a cloth wheel until the glass gleams.

These stages highlight the precision and skill required to produce each piece of Satsuma Kiriko glassware, underscoring the artisans’ dedication to their craft.

Revival and Modern-Day Relevance

The revival of Satsuma Kiriko glassware in the late 20th century brought this traditional craft back into the limelight. Today, Satsuma Kiriko glass continues to evolve, with innovations such as the double-colour-layering method adding new dimensions to the craft. Modern artisans reproduce historical styles and create contemporary pieces, including earrings and accessories, ensuring that Satsuma Kiriko remains relevant in today’s market.

The Satsuma Kiriko bowl is not just a piece of glassware; it is a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage and artistic ingenuity. Its intricate design, vibrant colours, and historical significance make it a prized example of Japanese decorative art.

Conclusion

The Satsuma Kiriko bowl exemplifies the exquisite artistry and cultural depth of Japanese cut glass from the Edo period. Its creation involves a blend of historical techniques and modern innovations, reflecting the enduring legacy of Satsuma Kiriko glassware. As interest in traditional crafts continues to grow, the story of Satsuma Kiriko serves as an inspiring reminder of the resilience and creativity of artisans past and present.

Sources

BECOS. (n.d.). Satsuma Kiriko: The traditional craft of Kagoshima. Retrieved May 30, 2024, from https://en.thebecos.com/blogs/column/satsuma-kiriko

Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Boat-shaped Satsuma Kiriko bowl with indigo blue overlay. Retrieved May 30, 2024, from https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/boat-shaped-satsuma-kiriko-bowl-with-indigo-blue-overlay-unknown/gwF0jhHpn0NPHA

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