[Hanasyo]School for making authentic Edo faceted glass.
2023.09.26
LIFEEdo faceting is a traditional craft in which delicate Japanese patterns are engraved on the surface of glass covered with red or indigo colored glass. It is said that the Edo faceting technique began in the late Edo period when Kyubei Kaga and others, who ran a beadlo shop, engraved patterns on glassware brought in by the Nanbans. The cut glass technique originally introduced from the West was refined by Edo craftsmen, and the brand “Edo faceted glass” was established with elaborate patterns and designs that evoke a sense of harmony.
Founded in 1946 in Kameido, Tokyo, “Hanasyo” is one of the workshops that continue to weave the history of Edo faceting. Initially, the company produced Edo faceting as a subcontractor for major glass manufacturers, but in order to pursue further technological innovation and unique designs, it established a directly managed store in the 1990s and continues to pursue new techniques and expressions while maintaining the traditional manual production method.
Hanasyo is particular about “patterns” and “polishing. In addition to traditional patterns, we have also created unique designs such as “Kome-tsunagi,” which looks like a row of rice grains praying for a good harvest, and “Hanafubuki,” which looks like cherry petals dancing in the air. In the final polishing process, the glass is painstakingly polished by hand, without using chemicals, to create pieces that harmonize the original luster of the glass with the beauty of the delicate patterns.
Did you know that there is a space where you can experience the unique expression and careful workmanship of Hanasyo?
At Hanashyo’s, a school of Edo faceting operated by Hanasyo, you can learn “real techniques” from the craftsmen working in the workshop and create your own work of art. Because Hanashyo’s Edo faceting is highly acclaimed internationally and has been selected as a gift for state guests, we do not usually offer tours of our workshop to the general public. However, “Hanashyo’s” is equipped with tools used in the actual workshop, creating an environment where visitors can hone their Edo faceting skills in earnest.
A wide variety of courses are offered according to the level of the students, including introductory and beginner courses to complete a gummy cup, intermediate courses to create works other than gummy cups, and advanced courses to train professional craftspeople. This is not just a “hands-on Edo faceting course,” but also a fun way to improve your own skills.
Autumn is the season of learning, which is said to be the most fruitful season. In this season, we will experience the traditional skills that have been passed down from generation to generation in downtown Tokyo,
Why not hone your own sensitivity and expressiveness while carefully carving detailed patterns?