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Usi, Ryukyu Glass & Inada Stone. A Magnificent Collaboration of Three Uniquely Japanese Brands
Ryukyu Glass
It is said that Ryukyu Glass craft began around the mid- Meiji period and has a history of about 100 years. Bearing in mind its history, it is the newest traditional craft in Okinawa and began to gain notice as a glass craft only after the war when production began for the American military personnel stationed in Okinawa. After the war, recycled glass created from discarded soda bottles used by military personnel was thick with air bubbles. These air bubbles, usually considered defects were utilized so as to give character to the glass, and with colours so vivid and dramatic that reflected the charming nature of Okinawa, Ryukyu Glass quickly became popularly known as “Bubble Glass.” More than half a century after the end of the war, with an abundant supply of raw glass easily accessible, master craftsmen and new methods emerging, Ryukyu Glass has evolved into high art and is now legitimately recognized as traditional craftwork representing Okinawa.
Inada Stone
Inada Stone. Formally called “Inada Granite,” is a representative light grey natural stone of Japan for noble ornamental use. This rock has been exploited since 1890, used mostly in institutional buildings such as the National Congress Capital, Supreme Court, Central Bank and other major institutions representing modern Japanese architecture of our time. Because of its magmatic origin, the Inada Stone has excellent homogenous texture, is composed of super fine mineral particles giving it a soft visual facet which is accentuated with a light gray surface and high sheen. The visual softness is emphasized by the profusion of semi-transparent quartz, which characterizes the Inada Granite. Due to the light colour, the stone is often referred to as “white granite” and is ranked the whitest granite in the world.
Ryukyu Glass Master - Ryukyu Glass Village
TAIRA Tsuneo
Ryukyu Glass - a crystal of light bred in Okinawa
The shimmering ocean, glittering sun and the strikingly beautiful flowers are all thoughts that go hand in hand with Okinawa - these images are reflected in the stunning colours of Ryukyu Glass. It is one of the authentic Japanese traditional glass arts with roots going back 100 years. Despite the length of time it has been around, it was only after the war that Ryukyu Glass began to gain recognition when production began for people from the US military in Okinawa. During the impoverished years after the war, old soda bottles were used to create recycled glass. Along with the bright, intense colours the glass was also full of air pockets and thus became known as“Bubble Glass.” In recent years Ryukyu glass has been highly praised as one of the true brands representing Japan and with expert skills, innovative techniques and plentiful raw materials it looks likely to be known as such for a long time to come.
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Born in 1950
Joined Okinawan Glass Factory after finishing High School
Currently Director of the Ryukyu Glass Village
Recognized by Okinawa as a Master Craftsman
“No matter how perfect the shape of the glass, it is the sensual,stunning colour that is the real key to Ryukyu Glass” - Mr. Taira painstakingly studies Okinawan nature for his inspiration.”
Ishi-ku - Shiohata Stoneworks Co. Ltd.
SHIOHATA Susumu
“Ishi-ku” are ancient “sculptors” dating back to the rise of civilization in Japan and who are recognized as being the very first professional craftsmen in history. Their sophisticated techniques have been passed on through the years to the present day.
Inada Stone has an excellent texture, which creates a high lustre giving a unique touch to my works. I personally cut my own stone at the quarry because my foremost concern is with the whiteness of the stone. I pride my works on being distinctive and elegant.
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Born in 1971, Kasama, Ibaraki
Began apprenticeship under his father, a Master Ishi-ku, after finishing education.
Shiohata is a successful new generation Ishi-ku receiving endless commissions from major clients.
