Japanese traditional glassware with bamboo palisade (Yarai) pattern
Edo-kiriko, born in the townsman culture, has created various glass products based on the advanced techniques of the craftsmen. There are many people who fall for the beautiful design and use the traditional craft glass.
Edo-kiriko has eight or more types of traditional patterns, and Yarai Pattern is one of them.
Meaning of Yarai Pattern
Yarai Pattern is a grid-like design that combines thick and thin lines. The pattern, which represents the shape of a fence made of bamboo and logs, means a guard fence, so it is believed to have the effect of an amulet.
Yarai Pattern Edo-kiriko rocks glass
History of Edo-kiriko
It is said that Kagaya Kyubei, who ran a glassware wholesaler in Oodenma-cho in Edo, started cutting glass works of foreign glassware brought in by Europeans since Tenpo period (1830-1844). In the Meiji period, Western-style cutting and sculpting techniques were introduced by technical instruction of the British. Many of the sophisticated cutting techniques which have led to the present day are supposed to start at this time.