This is Glass Workshop Saiho.
This time, we will explain the conditions for calling something Edo Kiriko and Edo Kiriko artisans.
◇Conditions for calling something Edo Kiriko
Be a member of the Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association and comply with the following regulations.
*The following is a quote from the Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association website ( https://www.edokiriko.or.jp/about.html )
1. Made of glass. 2. Made by hand . 3. Mainly uses rotary tools.
4. Produced in designated areas (Kanto region, centered on Koto Ward)
The designation of the area belongs to the Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association.
*Please be aware that in recent years, many people have not followed the above rules, resulting in a large number of imitation and fake products on the market.
◇ Number of Edo Kiriko craftsmen
The number of members of the Edo Kiriko Cooperative is now below 50, with 40 workshops.
As a result, there are currently fewer than 100 Edo Kiriko craftsmen left.
*This is not an exact figure, so please use it as a reference only. Currently, there are only about 60-70 Edo Kiriko craftsmen.
・Gender ratio Japan's traditional crafts and old customs remain,
It's still a male-dominated society.
As far as we know, there are just over 10 female craftsmen.
Our company is a workshop with five of them.
◇Craftsmen at Glass Studio Saiho
https://saihou.net/pages/staff
Currently (as of May 2024), there are 5 men and 5 women (average age: 32 years old)
*Please note that the three young members have not yet been listed on the website.
◇Regarding applications to become Edo Kiriko craftsmen these days, we receive a large number of applications.
The ratio of male to female applicants is 1:9, with an overwhelming majority of applicants being female.
We will explain this in more detail in another article!
I look forward to your next article.
Glass Studio Saiho
