• Full view of a Satsuma Kiriko two-tone yellow sake glass, reflecting intricate patterns and craftsmanship.
  • Detailed side view of a Satsuma Kiriko two-tone yellow sake glass, featuring geometric star patterns.
  • Close-up of the base of a Satsuma Kiriko two-tone yellow sake glass, highlighting etched geometric designs.
  • Top view of a Satsuma Kiriko two-tone yellow sake glass, intricate star pattern etched inside.
  • Angled top view of a Satsuma Kiriko two-tone yellow sake glass, showing delicate yellow glass details.
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Shimadzu Limited

Satsuma Kiriko Sake Glass Yellow

Satsuma Kiriko Sake Glass Yellow

$419.00 USD
$419.00 USD
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Brighten your collection with the rare brilliance of the Yellow Satsuma Kiriko Sake Glass, a color that took two years to perfect. Known for its clear, lemon-yellow hue, this vibrant shade remains one of the most challenging colors to achieve in glassmaking, even today. Historically referred to as "golden yellow" during the Edo period, this fresh and eye-catching color stands out with a radiant glow.

The wide, slightly curved rim of this glass is gently reheated and softened after shaping, ensuring a smooth finish that allows sake to flow gently and comfortably. Its base is expertly faceted into twelve planes to amplify the reflection of the chrysanthemum motif engraved on the bottom, creating a stunning visual effect. Sized to fit perfectly in the hand, this versatile vessel is an elegant choice for chilled sake, wine, or even as a sophisticated cup for appetizers and desserts.

Detail

Size: W 2.8in x L 2.8in x H 2.8in / W 7.2cm x L 7.2cm x H 7cm
Capacity: 100cc / 3.4oz
Material: Crystal Glass

Care ＆ Use

  • Handwash only
  • Do not use in microwave or oven
  • Due to handmade colouring and carving characteristics, each piece has subtle variations in size and appearance.
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Map of Japan and the pin pointing on Kagoshima City

Satsuma Kiriko: A Legacy from Kagoshima

Satsuma Kiriko, a form of Japanese cut glass, was born in the Satsuma domain, modern-day Kagoshima, during the mid-19th century. This vibrant glasswork is characterized by its colorful overlays and meticulous cuts, revealing intricate patterns and stunning color gradations. Inspired by Western glassmaking techniques, Shimazu Nariakira, the lord of Satsuma, sought to create a craft that would rival global standards. However, after Nariakira’s death in 1858 and the subsequent Anglo-Satsuma War, the region’s economy faltered. Factories were destroyed, and the knowledge and tools required to continue production faded away, leading to the craft’s decline.

For over a century, Satsuma Kiriko lay dormant. It wasn’t until the 1980s that local artisans, guided by Shimadzu Limited, embarked on the complex task of reviving this lost art. Today, Satsuma Kiriko stands as both a symbol of Kagoshima’s rich history and a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship, offering a timeless blend of tradition and innovation.

Brand History

Shimadzu Limited, founded in 1922, is a Kagoshima-based company deeply rooted in the region’s heritage. While the company’s origins don’t trace back to the exact time of Satsuma Kiriko’s creation, its true significance emerged in the 1980s when it undertook the ambitious task of reviving this long-forgotten craft. With a dedication to preserving traditional techniques, Shimadzu Limited worked with artisans to meticulously recreate the lost methods of glass layering and cutting, bringing Satsuma Kiriko back to life. 

What sets Shimadzu Limited apart is its dual commitment to authenticity and innovation. By reviving Satsuma Kiriko, the company not only preserved a key part of Japanese cultural heritage but also introduced new techniques and designs, ensuring the craft remains relevant today. Their role in this revival has solidified Shimadzu Limited as a cornerstone of both historical preservation and modern artistry in Japan.