Born as an Object of Desire

The history of Edo Kiriko is said to have begun in the late Edo period. At the time, glass products were extremely rare. Edo Kiriko, with its intricate carvings on this precious material, was a luxurious item that only a select few—the privileged class and wealthy merchants—could afford. Its primary role was not as a practical vessel for daily life, but as a powerful status symbol, used at banquets and other gatherings to showcase one's social standing and wealth.

During this era, Edo Kiriko was far removed from the lives of common people. Opportunities to see its brilliance were few and far between, making it a true object of aspiration. It was used not for everyday meals, but primarily for entertaining special guests or as a formal gift. At this stage, Edo Kiriko was less about personal enjoyment and more a craft that derived its value from its role in social relationships.