The Edo Kiriko “Himawari” Rock Glass by TOA Glass Craft transforms a traditional Japanese cut-glass pattern into the form of a sunflower.

Made in Tokyo, the glass is intricately cut so that when viewed from above, its pattern opens outward like a blooming sunflower. The design combines the precision of traditional Edo Kiriko with a distinctly contemporary visual expression.

The Himawari Rock Glass is available through IMAMI.

A Sunflower Created from a Traditional Edo Kiriko Pattern

At the heart of the design is Nanako, one of the traditional patterns associated with Edo Kiriko.

Inspired by the appearance of fish roe, Nanako is formed through closely spaced intersecting cuts. Although visually simple, the Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association notes that the pattern demands considerable precision from the artisan.

In the Himawari glass, this traditional geometry is arranged to create something more figurative.

Viewed from above, the cuts radiate across the glass to reveal the impression of a sunflower in bloom.

Rather than reproducing a traditional motif unchanged, the design uses established Edo Kiriko techniques to create a new visual composition.

TOA Glass Craft and Artisan Satoshi Nabetani

TOA Glass Craft is an Edo Kiriko workshop based in Kamata, Ota-ku, Tokyo. Its representative, Satoshi Nabetani, is a government-certified Traditional Craftsman of Edo Kiriko.

Nabetani began training under his father in 1993, later worked at Kagami Crystal, and joined TOA Glass Craft in 1996. He was certified as an Edo Kiriko Traditional Craftsman in 2010.

His work is rooted in established cutting techniques while exploring how pattern, transparency and light interact across the surface of the glass.

The Himawari Rock Glass is presented by specialist retailers as one of his Edo Kiriko designs.

Cut to Transform Light

The Himawari is made from crystal glass, with a diameter of approximately 7 cm and a height of around 8.8 cm according to product specifications.

Each cut creates another surface for light to enter and reflect. As the glass is turned, the appearance of the pattern shifts with the angle of view and the surrounding light.

The design has been produced in a variety of colours, including yellow, blue, green, purple, clear and kin-aka, a distinctive Japanese red glass colour.

The same pattern can therefore take on a markedly different character depending on the colour of the glass.

A Drinking Vessel and a Piece of Japanese Craft

A drinking glass contributes more than function alone.

Its weight in the hand, the colour of the drink seen through the glass and the reflections created by its cut surface all become part of the experience.

The Himawari can be used as a rock glass for whisky, shochu and other spirits, while its craftsmanship also gives it a presence beyond the moment of drinking.

It reflects an idea central to IMAMI: bringing fine drinks and Japanese craftsmanship together through the vessels in which they are enjoyed.

Edo Kiriko “Himawari” Rock Glass by TOA Glass Craft

Tokyo, Japan | Edo Kiriko | Rock Glass | Crystal Glass

An Edo Kiriko rock glass by TOA Glass Craft, using the traditional Nanako pattern to create the appearance of a blooming sunflower.

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