Kagami Crystal’s clients, which include the Prime Minister’s Office of Japan, may lead you to think of Edo kiriko as precious glassware you would use only for special occasions. But make no mistake—Kagami does not stop there, but extends to all occasions.

Broadly speaking, the distinction between art and kogei in Japan comes down to whether an object can be used in daily life. Edo kiriko is firmly in the latter category, so don’t shut it away in a cupboard; let it be part of your everyday!

As something to be used, not just admired, Kagami Crystal unsurprisingly reflects Japanese culture and the traditional way of life in its designs. From short glasses with matching carafe designed specifically for sake to vase sets that take you on a journey through the seasons, each item is a product of Japanese culture.

However, Kagami Crystal’s story, like that of Edo kiriko overall, is one of constant evolution. Of course, Japan now has a vibrant culture of its own in whiskey, beer, and Western-style wine. In line with that, Kagami Crystal makes glasses, tumblers, and flutes for all types of drinks and occasions.

Apart from its diverse line-up of glassware, which includes a perfect fit for any lifestyle anywhere, there is another reason why Kagami Crystal has become one of the most respected names in Edo kiriko—it was the first manufacturer of crystal in Japan. The difference between crystal and other glass is all in the clarity. Watching the play of light through the facets of the crystal makes this difference all the more tangible.

All of Kagami Crystal’s glassware passes through the same Japanese atelier, under the watchful eye of prefecture-certified Traditional Craftsmen of Ibaraki Prefecture. Each piece is melted, shaped, and colored before being cut on a grinder and then polished. Every step is performed meticulously by hand. Although all pieces might look identical, the shaping and the cutting are ultimately dependent on the artisan’s eye, which can result in minute differences in each piece that make it one of a kind.

Where Kagami Crystal again differs is in the little tweaks made to the traditional kiriko formula. Most makers of Edo kiriko use only the lead colorings that were originally popularized in the nineteenth century, but Kagami Crystal uses new pigment combinations to conjure up glowing ambers, rich purples, and emerald greens in its glassware.

Kagami also employs graveur etching techniques using emery sand to achieve breathtaking detail with an amazing depth of field. This glassware really has to be seen in person to be believed.

Edo kiriko glassware is a popular wedding gift in Japan—a set of two glasses (one red and one blue) is often given to a bride and groom on their special day. But you don’t have to be bound by tradition when buying kiriko. In fact, it’s best to start by adopting a kogei frame of mind and considering how to make this beautiful glassware a part of your daily life.

You might prefer a vase for fresh flowers or a wine glass fit for your favorite chardonnay or cabernet or even an everyday tumbler for your desk. The best occasion for Edo kiriko is the one you create yourself. Further, Edo kiriko truly comes alive the moment it is put to use. All those intricate facets sparkle with the movement of the liquid in the glass, bringing a fantastic work of art into your everyday life.

Kagami Crystal has two stores in Tokyo: one in Ginza and the other close to the Imperial Palace near Tokyo Station. However, given the current situation with COVID-19, those stores may be difficult to reach right now, but the company offers global shipping via its official website. Shipments are sent by registered courier so that each masterpiece is assured to arrive safely.

Here’s our three recommended Edo kiriko products to get you started.

At first glance, you might think these glasses are the epitome of tradition. Yet, their color has been made a little bolder and their size a little larger to suit contemporary tastes. They are wide enough to take the ice for whiskey on the rocks yet tall enough to accommodate beer with a pleasing head.

For a contemporary take on this vase, these designs in a range of colors are satisfyingly complete without flowers but come to life with the addition of your favorite blooms.

Showcasing Kagami Crystal’s exceptional attention to detail, the designs on these glasses capture Japanese motifs in fabulous clarity, including one of Mt. Fuji in the snow. While designed as sake glasses, they are also a good choice for dessert wine, sherry, or neat liquor.