Mini Kiriko Set IV
A little two part set inspired by the cut glass technique produced in Tokyo known as edo-kiriko (Edo being the name for Tokyo from the 17th to 19th centuries, kiriko means 'cut glass'). Cut glass that arrived from the Netherlands via Nagasaki in the 17th century was at first mimicked when in 1834 a glass wholesaler in Edo named Kyubei Kagaya worked out how to use emery powder as an abrasive agent to create designs on the surface of the glass (then just clear glass). As Edo went through a huge modernisation process and became Tokyo, the government invited Englishman Emmanuel Hauptmann, a British cut glass engineer, to Japan in 1881, to teach his techniques to the Japanese glass artisans. The various techniques were merged to create the edo-kiriko style known today (and this in turn absorbed techniques from Satsuma kiriko, as production in a different part of Japan stopped at the end of the 19th century and many of those craftsmen migrated to Tokyo). In the 20th century the techniques and materials advanced to create high quality pieces much in demand. As a relatively late origin craft, it was recognised as a traditional Japanese craft by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2002, and is still made in Tokyo.
I can clearly see the English roots in some of the patterns of Edo kiriko, and was inspired to make these little two part sets - a mini wood girl and wooden cup painted in a naive manner to look a little like cut glass.
Artist notes:
My pieces are painted in a naïve and simple style, with visible brush strokes and differing paint consistencies. It is important to note that these dolls are made from real wood which will have naturally occurring markings and grain, and sometimes there will be small amount of bleeding along the grain, or knots, which is to be expected when using untreated wood - please make sure you consult the pictures carefully before purchasing. Finished in a top coat of matt acrylic.
Beech wood cups measuring 5.5 cm high and mini wood girls measuring 9.5 cm high. When the girl stands inside the cup the total height is just under 11 cm tall.
Pieces have little bear head underneath.
Please note: Wood girls should be kept away from water which can damage the wood and painted surface, and also away from direct heat/ sunlight which also can affect the surface colour and the timber itself. THIS IS NOT A TOY and should be kept out of the reach of children.
