Description

Xandre Store Exclusive: Celebrating Okinawan Artisanal Glass Heritage Through Fine Art Tableware

Discover a luminous expression of contemporary Okinawan glassmaking through this hand-blown glass cup by Kazuha Miyaguni (宮國 一羽), an Okinawa Prefecture-certified Traditional Craftsman. Sourced directly from the artist’s shop in Yomitan Pottery Village (やちむんの里), this vessel features a subtle pinkish-sunset rim transitioning into a warm amber-gold body beneath a fine metallic crackle texture. A raised azure-blue glass ribbon wraps around the form, introducing a vivid oceanic accent against the warmer interior colors. The resulting composition brings together the visual character of an Okinawan sunset and the surrounding blue sea in a compact piece of contemporary studio glass.

Kazuha Miyaguni: Contemporary Okinawan Glass Craftsmanship

Born in Naha, Okinawa, in 1971, Kazuha Miyaguni (宮國 一羽) developed his craft within Okinawa’s distinguished glassmaking tradition as the son of Tsuguo Miyaguni (宮國 次男), a renowned Okinawan glass craftsman recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman (現代の名工). Miyaguni trained at established workshops including Okuhara Glass Studio and Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Niji.” After receiving recognition through multiple Okiten Exhibition appearances, he established Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Kizuna” (宙吹ガラス工房「絆」) in Yomitan Village in 2015 and later assumed a representative role at Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Niji.” In 2022, he was certified as an Okinawa Prefecture Traditional Craftsman, further establishing his role in the continuation and contemporary development of Okinawan glassmaking.

Highlights

1. Certified Okinawa Traditional Craftsman: Individually mouth-blown by Kazuha Miyaguni (宮國 一羽).
2. Direct Studio Provenance: Sourced directly from the artist’s shop in Yomitan Pottery Village.
3. Sunset-Inspired Palette: Pinkish-sunset tones transition into warm amber-gold glass.
4. Metallic Crackle Texture: A delicate crackle network adds depth and shifting reflections across the surface.
5. Sculptural Azure Ribbon: A raised blue glass swirl provides a vivid contrast and tactile dimension.
6. Traditional Chūfuki Technique: Created using 宙吹き, allowing natural variations in form, color, and glass flow.
7. Artist Documentation Included: Accompanied by an artist profile card bearing Miyaguni’s signature and red artist seal.

Curator’s Note

This vessel is defined by the relationship between warm metallic earth tones and vivid oceanic blue. The soft pink rim and amber-gold body create a warm foundation, while the azure glass ribbon introduces a striking counterpoint. Across the body, the crackle texture catches ambient light and creates a constantly changing network of highlights and shadows. The piece is particularly compelling when viewed under natural light, where the translucent glass reveals layers of color and subtle variations within the handmade surface. Directly sourced from Miyaguni’s shop in Yomitan, the cup offers collectors a tangible connection to contemporary Okinawan glassmaking and the artist’s individual interpretation of traditional chūfuki craftsmanship.

Specifications

1. Artist: Kazuha Miyaguni (宮國 一羽)
2. Studio: Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Niji” / “Kizuna” (宙吹ガラス工房「虹」/「絆」)
3. Origin: Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
4. Category: Hand-Blown Okinawan Glassware / Contemporary Fine Art Drinkware
5. Craft Tradition: Okinawan Hand-Blown Glass (宙吹ガラス)
6. Technique: Traditional mouth-blown glass (宙吹き)
7. Material: Hand-blown glass with metallic foil crackle effect
8. Color Palette: Sunset blush, warm amber-gold, metallic crackle, azure blue
9. Documentation: Original artist profile card with artist signature and red seal
10. Acquisition: Directly sourced from the artist’s shop in Yomitan Pottery Village

Care Instructions

1. Wash gently by hand using lukewarm water and mild dish soap.
2. Avoid abrasive sponges, brushes, or harsh chemical cleaners.
3. Do not place in a dishwasher or microwave.
4. Avoid sudden extreme temperature changes that may cause thermal shock.
5. Handle the raised glass ribbon carefully during washing and drying.

Shipping & International Orders

Domestic shipping within Japan is available with protective packaging suitable for delicate studio glass. International orders may be subject to shipping charges, import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or other local taxes. All applicable destination-country charges are the responsibility of the recipient.

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