When it comes to setting up an aquarium, one thing’s for sure – our finned friends need their cozy enclosures! It’s a no brainer that glass plays a starring role in making that happen. It’s like the invisible force that allows us to peek into their aquatic world while keeping them safe and sound. Ginza Art Aquarium takes this to a new level, but let me first do the introductions.

Edo Kiriko

In the coronavirus pandemic of 2020, I was lucky to have experienced the most creative time of my life. With work from home being the norm, no evening customer dinners, no travel time, I had time on hand to learn about Japanese design techniques especially on wood work Kumiko and glass work Edo-Kiriko.

Although Kumiko wood work excites me more, I am equally enchanted by Edo Kiriko, a cherished traditional Japanese art that revolves around the delicate craft of glass cutting. Originating in Tokyo in my own neighborhood of Edogawa Ward, during the Edo period, this ancient technique involves skilled artisans intricately carving geometric patterns and motifs into glassware using specialized cutting wheels. The end result is a breathtaking display of elegant and stunning glass pieces. So how is this related to the Ginza Art Aquarium? That’s where these Edo-Kiriko bowls come into picture

Japanese have a long history of keeping fish as ornamental pets in various containers, including bowls and small tanks. This practice of keeping fish as pets dates back centuries and is known as “suizokukan” or “ranchu” in Japan. What Hidetomo Kimura, the artist behind the Ginza Art Aquarium has done is blend traditional Japanese aesthetics of the glass art and the Koi-carp fish. I saw the bowls placed in the aquarium and each enclosure an experience of its own.

When viewing a fish gracefully swimming within an Edo Kiriko bowl, visitors are treated to a truly mesmerizing experience. The intricate glass-cutting patterns and elegant designs of the Kiriko bowl enhance the beauty of the underwater world, creating a captivating display. As the light filters through the delicately carved glass, it casts a soft, enchanting glow on the aquatic inhabitant, giving the entire scene an ethereal quality.

The reflection of the Edo Kiriko bowls on the glass surfaces they rest upon is nothing short of a mesmerizing spectacle. The intricate and precisely-cut designs of the bowls cast a captivating dance of light and shadows on the underlying glass, creating a symphony of patterns that seem to come alive. The interplay of colors and textures results in an enchanting visual display, enhancing the allure of both the delicate glassware and the smooth surface beneath.

I personally think that the fusion of glass art and fish in creations like Edo Kiriko bowls holds significant importance, especially concerning the well-being of the fish themselves. The delicate and transparent nature of the glass allows for unobstructed visibility, enabling enthusiasts and the public to observe the aquatic life without causing undue stress to the fish. The artistic elegance of Edo Kiriko bowls enhances the overall aesthetic of the aquarium environment, creating a serene and visually captivating space for the fish to thrive.

The price of an Edo Kiriko fish bowl can vary depending on its size, intricacy of design, and the reputation of the artist or the brand. Typically, Edo Kiriko glassware is considered a premium and artisanal product, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship involved in its creation. As the size and intricacy of the design increase, the price can go up significantly. The ones on display at the Ginza Art Aquarium should be at atleast several thousand dollars.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the beauty of craftsmanship and nature come together in this mesmerizing showcase. Plan your visit now for an unforgettable encounter with the magic of Edo Kiriko!