The Edo Kiriko glasswork we deliver to everyone is created by artisans who apply precise cuts (engravings) to pristine "glass blanks." We, Saiho, are a specialized workshop for glass processing, and the glass blanks themselves are made by artisans at specialized blown glass manufacturers (kiln studios).
Currently, the environment surrounding "glass blanks," which form the foundation of Edo Kiriko, is undergoing significant global changes. This time, we will honestly discuss the real situation at the root of our manufacturing and our commitment to quality.
[The Truth from the Manufacturer]
Glass Blank Quality and the Decision to Preserve "The Best Piece" in Modern Times
1. Different from the Showa Era: The Harsh Realities Faced by Glass Blowing Manufacturers Today
The "blank making" process, where glass is blown in intense heat well over 1000 degrees, is unimaginably harsh. In recent years, strict laws regarding improving working conditions and employment have been thoroughly enforced. This is natural and a very correct change to protect workers.
However, on the other hand, the extreme image of old-fashioned artisans who, like in the Showa era, would stick to the kiln 24 hours a day, sacrificing all personal life and safety, cannot exist in modern times. Balancing compliance under harsh conditions with the transmission of advanced skills is extremely difficult not only in Japan but worldwide. Manufacturers supporting the foundation of traditional crafts are desperately striving to preserve wonderful glass in an unprecedentedly challenging environment.
Given this background, the quality of glass blanks cannot physically "improve" any further. The blanks that reach us now are the utmost "best" that contemporary artisans can produce while adhering to laws and environmental standards.
2. Absolutely No Impact on Human Safety, Cutting Precision, or Design
As the nature of glass blanks evolves to modern standards, slight individual differences may arise, such as minuscule air bubbles or subtle fluctuations that are barely visible. However, these have absolutely no impact on human safety. Of course, they also do not detract from the traditional patterns of Edo Kiriko that we apply, nor do they compromise the beauty or design completeness of the product.
Some discerning and sensitive customers might be slightly concerned by these subtle individual differences, which distinguish our products from uniform industrial (machine-made) goods. However, if we were to pursue "perfect flawlessness" in the blanks beyond this point, the cost of selecting materials would skyrocket, and the selling price presented to you would become "more than double the current price."
Instead of making it an exorbitant luxury item for a select few with outrageous price increases, we chose to maintain the current price range so that everyone can enjoy authentic Edo Kiriko at their dining table.
3. Saiho's Thorough and Strict Inspection System Guarantees "The Current Best"
Precisely because it is globally challenging to further improve the quality of glass blanks, our role as processors in "inspection" becomes extremely crucial.
At Saiho, we have established our own very strict internal inspection standards for the blanks we receive and for the finished products after cutting. We meticulously select the "current best" blanks that manufacturers have painstakingly created, and our skilled artisans pour their soul into each cut. By the time the product reaches your hands, it is shipped with absolutely no compromise, delivering the "highest quality." We are absolutely confident in this.
As a Testament to "Authentic Handiwork" in the Modern Era
Glass blanks created while strictly adhering to modern laws and environmental standards, engraved with traditional cuts by proud, skilled Japanese artisans – this is the true form of "authentic traditional craft" in our current era. The subtle individual differences in the blanks are also a testament to the warm, human-infused handiwork, distinguishing them from mass-produced machine-made goods.
4. Summary: Adapting with the Times, We Continue to Pass Down the Finest Traditions
The manufacturing environment changes with the times. However, our passion for "delivering the best sparkle and inspiration" to our customers never wavers.
Precisely because these are challenging times, we never forget our respect for the glassblowers. As those entrusted with their blanks, we elevate them to a proud single piece through thorough inspection and the highest level of craftsmanship. We hope you will continue to trust and enjoy Saiho's Edo Kiriko, imbued with the best of what is possible today, for many years to come.
Edo Kiriko Studio Saiho
