Description

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

Discover an organic expression of contemporary Okinawan studio glassmaking through this handcrafted tumbler by third-generation glass artist Ayumu Inamine (稲嶺 歩夢). Acquired directly from the family studio shop in Yomitan Pottery Village (Yomitan Yachimun no Sato), this distinctive vessel combines a warm amber-bronze palette with a dense, foam-like bubble structure characteristic of Bubble Glass (泡ガラス). A darker amber band defines the waist, adding visual depth while creating a naturally comfortable grip. The result is a tactile piece of Okinawan glassware that bridges traditional mouth-blown craftsmanship with a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.

Ayumu Inamine: A Third-Generation Okinawan Glassmaking Tradition

Ayumu Inamine represents the continuing evolution of a notable Okinawan glassmaking family.

1. Grandson of Seikichi Inamine (稲嶺 盛吉): A pioneering figure in modern Ryukyu glass, Seikichi Inamine was recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman (現代の名工) and became known for experimental, organic approaches to Okinawan glassmaking, including bubble-textured glass and distinctive material and surface effects.
2. Son of Seiichiro Inamine (稲嶺 盛一郎): An established Okinawan glassmaker associated with Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Niji” (宙吹ガラス工房「虹」) in Yomitan, known for expressive color combinations and his Domon series.
3. Third Generation: Working within this family tradition in Yomitan, Ayumu develops his own contemporary interpretation of Okinawan hand-blown glass while remaining connected to the techniques and visual language passed through the family.

Rather than simply reproducing earlier generations' work, Ayumu's pieces offer a glimpse into the next generation of Okinawan studio glass, where inherited craftsmanship meets an evolving artistic vocabulary.

Highlights

1. Third-Generation Inamine Lineage: Crafted by Ayumu Inamine, son of Seiichiro Inamine and grandson of Seikichi Inamine.
2. Direct Yomitan Studio Provenance: Acquired directly from the family studio shop in Yomitan Pottery Village.
3. Distinctive Bubble Glass (泡ガラス): Dense micro-bubble texture creates a luminous, foam-like surface that interacts dramatically with light.
4. Amber-Bronze Color Palette: Warm amber and bronze tones give the vessel an earthy, sophisticated character.
5. Dark Amber Waist Band: A contrasting band visually anchors the form while providing a comfortable grip.
6. Traditional Chūfuki Technique: Created through Okinawan mouth-blown glassmaking tradition.
7. Functional Fine Art: Designed as a tumbler or rock glass while possessing the individuality expected of collectible studio glass.

Curator's Note

This tumbler is particularly compelling for the way texture becomes part of the color. Under direct light, the countless bubbles within the amber body create an almost illuminated, effervescent quality, while the darker waist provides a strong visual interruption and gives the vessel its sculptural character. The gently indented form also feels purposeful in the hand, balancing artistic presence with everyday functionality. For collectors, the piece offers something beyond its use as drinkware: it represents a contemporary expression of a continuing Okinawan glassmaking tradition, acquired directly from the family studio in Yomitan.

Specifications

1. Artist: Ayumu Inamine (稲嶺 歩夢)
2. Family Studio: Chu-Fuki Glass Studio “Niji” (宙吹ガラス工房「虹」)
3. Origin: Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
4. Category: Hand-Blown Ryukyu Glassware / Fine Art Drinkware / Tumbler / Rock Glass
5. Craft Tradition: Okinawan Hand-Blown Glass (宙吹ガラス) / Bubble Glass (泡ガラス)
6. Technique: Traditional mouth-blown glassmaking
7. Material: Hand-blown glass with dense micro-bubble texture
8. Color Palette: Amber-bronze with dark amber waist accent
9. Provenance: Direct acquisition from the family studio shop in Yomitan Pottery Village

Care Instructions

1. Wash gently by hand with lukewarm water and mild dish soap.
2. Avoid abrasive sponges, scouring agents, and harsh chemical cleaners.
3. Do not place in a dishwasher or microwave.
4. Avoid sudden temperature changes and extreme thermal shock.
5. Handle carefully, particularly around the rim and base.

Shipping & International Orders

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

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