An Edo Kiriko old fashioned glass named Izumi: cut crystal and carefully polished surfaces in Nemoto Glass Crafts’ Luxury Class.

Nemoto Glass Crafts Old Fashioned Glass “Izumi” Luxury Class is an Edo Kiriko cut-crystal glass made by the Nemoto family workshop in Kameido, Tokyo. This article focuses on the Sumi (ink-dark) version, made using genuine KAGAMI crystal glass.

Nemoto Glass Crafts is known for accurate linear cutting, expressive curves and meticulous hand-polishing. The deep Sumi colour sets off the clear cut facets, allowing light to reveal the precision of the pattern.

Nemoto Glass Crafts: Three Generations of Edo Kiriko

Based in Kameido in Tokyo’s Koto ward, Nemoto Glass Crafts is a family workshop whose tradition has passed from founder Yukio Nemoto to his son Tatsuya and grandson Kosho. The workshop describes their shared dedication to precise patterns, sharp cutting edges and careful hand-polishing.

The clarity and polished surfaces of Yukio Nemoto’s work became an important influence on later generations. Rather than relying solely on established traditional patterns, the workshop also explores challenging curved cuts and original compositions.

Another example from the same workshop is the Rou barrel-shaped old fashioned glass, whose design explores the movement of a flickering flame.

Izumi: Depth of Ink-Dark Colour and Cut Crystal

Izumi Sumi Luxury Class is an old fashioned glass distinguished by its deep, ink-dark colour. The contrast with the transparent facets reveals the contours of each cut.

The dark surface gives way to flashes of clear crystal as the glass moves, allowing the depth of colour and precision of the cuts to be appreciated from different angles.

Generations of cutting and hand-polishing expertise are reflected in the interplay of dark colour, light and polished crystal.

Genuine KAGAMI Crystal and the Art of Hand-Polishing

The maker specifies genuine crystal glass produced by KAGAMI as the material for Izumi. Crystal clarity is important in Edo Kiriko, as light travels through the facets, cut lines and polished surfaces.

Making cut glass involves more than carving a design into the surface. Polishing the cuts brings transparency and brilliance to the finished object. Nemoto Glass Crafts places particular importance on time-consuming hand-polishing, following a philosophy passed down through generations.

The interplay between crisp edges and smooth polished facets becomes particularly apparent as light or a drink passes through the glass.

Sumi: Ink-Dark Colour and Clear Cut Facets

The Sumi version combines a deep, almost black colour with transparent facets revealed by the cutting process. The contrast draws attention to the precision of the pattern and the clarity of the polished surfaces.

Colour-cased glass obtains its pattern through the contrast between the coloured layer and the clear glass exposed by cutting. The contrast of dark and transparent surfaces adds depth to the carved pattern.

As each glass is handcrafted, slight variations in the Sumi colour and the cut finish may occur. The interplay of dark surfaces and clear facets is best appreciated on the individual piece.

Enjoying Izumi as an Old Fashioned Glass

An old fashioned glass is suited to whisky and other spirits, whether served over ice or in small pours. The liquid changes how the surface cuts and coloured areas appear through the glass.

Its weight in the hand, rim profile and the feel of its cutting are also part of the experience of choosing an individual piece.

Nemoto Glass Crafts Old Fashioned Glass Izumi Luxury Class | Product Details

Edo Kiriko｜Nemoto Glass Crafts｜Old Fashioned Glass｜Izumi｜Sumi｜Luxury Class｜Genuine KAGAMI Crystal Glass｜Paulownia Wood Box and Maker Biography Included

This Izumi old fashioned glass from Nemoto Glass Crafts in Tokyo features the ink-dark Sumi colour, allowing the transparent cut facets and polished surfaces to stand out. Its appeal lies in the relationship between the crystal material, cut facets and careful finishing. Each handcrafted piece offers its own subtle character.

Availability at IMAMI

IMAMI is a specialist in wine, whisky, Japanese sake and Japanese glassware, including Edo Kiriko cut crystal. For current availability, please visit IMAMI Ginza, IMAMI Shinsaibashi, or our contact page.

※Each piece is handcrafted. Availability and individual variations in colour and finish should be confirmed with the store.