Kutani Glass - Reiwa Kinhanazume Usubeni

Two Japanese Traditions, One Glass

Kutani ware is a ceramic tradition from Ishikawa Prefecture, known for expressive painting and a rich use of colour. Edo glass, developed in Tokyo, brings another kind of beauty: the clarity and subtle variations of glass shaped by hand. One invites us to look at a painted surface; the other lets us look through it.

Based in Nomi, Ishikawa, Seihodo brings these two traditions together in its Kutani Wa Glass collection. A hand-painted porcelain base supports a hand-blown glass bowl, joining two materials with very different textures and ways of catching the light. It is a way of enjoying Japanese ceramics through a familiar object that can find a place at many different tables.

Usubeni is a soft pink interpretation of Reiwa Kinhanazume. The floral painting gives you a detail to look at closely, while the gentle colour sits comfortably alongside simple plates and everyday tableware.

Kinhanazume is a Kutani floral painting style that emerged in 1913. Reiwa Kinhanazume gives that tradition a softer palette for present-day interiors, making the decoration approachable without losing the pleasure of looking closely at a painted vessel.

Beer brings its own colour and movement to the clear bowl. Set the glass down between sips and the painted base comes back into view. It is an invitation to enjoy the vessel along with the drink, whether the evening is spent alone or in easy conversation with friends.