• Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko sake cup with starburst and geometric patterns.
  • Close-up of Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko sake cup highlighting detailed craftsmanship.
  • Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko large sake cup showcasing hand-cut starburst designs.
  • Base of Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko sake cup with geometric cuts and Shimadzu engraving.
  • Close-up of intricate starburst pattern on Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko sake cup.
1 5
Shimadzu Limited

Satsuma Kiriko Large Sake Cup Shimadzu Purple

Satsuma Kiriko Large Sake Cup Shimadzu Purple

$379.00 USD
$379.00 USD
Sale Coming Soon
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Embrace the regal heritage of the Shimadzu Purple Satsuma Kiriko large sake cup. This distinctive purple hue was developed with great care, inspired by the symbolic color used in the armor cords of Lord Nariakira Shimazu, a color deeply tied to the prestige of the Satsuma domain. Unlike the traditional purple used during the Edo period, gold has been added to the glass, imbuing it with a glamorous, radiant brilliance.

Deep colors and a precision lattice of chrysanthemum patterns create a contrast of light and shadow. After shaping, the rim is reheated and softened for a smooth finish. The transparency of high-grade crystal stands out, with each piece possessing its own unique character. Suitable for use as a sake cup, small dish, or vessel for delicacies.

Detail

Size: W 2.4in x L 2.4in x H 2in / W 6.2cm x L 6.2cm x H 5.2cm
Capacity: 80cc / 2.7oz
Material: Crystal Glass

Care ＆ Use

  • Handwash only
  • Do not use in microwave or oven
  • Due to handmade colouring and carving characteristics, each piece has subtle variations in size and appearance.
View full details
Map of Japan and the pin pointing on Kagoshima City

Satsuma Kiriko: A Legacy from Kagoshima

Satsuma Kiriko, a form of Japanese cut glass, was born in the Satsuma domain, modern-day Kagoshima, during the mid-19th century. This vibrant glasswork is characterized by its colorful overlays and meticulous cuts, revealing intricate patterns and stunning color gradations. Inspired by Western glassmaking techniques, Shimazu Nariakira, the lord of Satsuma, sought to create a craft that would rival global standards. However, after Nariakira’s death in 1858 and the subsequent Anglo-Satsuma War, the region’s economy faltered. Factories were destroyed, and the knowledge and tools required to continue production faded away, leading to the craft’s decline.

For over a century, Satsuma Kiriko lay dormant. It wasn’t until the 1980s that local artisans, guided by Shimadzu Limited, embarked on the complex task of reviving this lost art. Today, Satsuma Kiriko stands as both a symbol of Kagoshima’s rich history and a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship, offering a timeless blend of tradition and innovation.

Brand History

Shimadzu Limited, founded in 1922, is a Kagoshima-based company deeply rooted in the region’s heritage. While the company’s origins don’t trace back to the exact time of Satsuma Kiriko’s creation, its true significance emerged in the 1980s when it undertook the ambitious task of reviving this long-forgotten craft. With a dedication to preserving traditional techniques, Shimadzu Limited worked with artisans to meticulously recreate the lost methods of glass layering and cutting, bringing Satsuma Kiriko back to life. 

What sets Shimadzu Limited apart is its dual commitment to authenticity and innovation. By reviving Satsuma Kiriko, the company not only preserved a key part of Japanese cultural heritage but also introduced new techniques and designs, ensuring the craft remains relevant today. Their role in this revival has solidified Shimadzu Limited as a cornerstone of both historical preservation and modern artistry in Japan.