Item Description This exceptional tumbler showcases the mastery of Seikichi Inamine, one of Okinawa's most celebrated glass artists and a designated Contemporary Master Craftsman of Japan. Created at the renowned Mid-Air Glass Blowing Studio Rainbow (宙吹きガラス工房虹), this piece exemplifies Inamine's revolutionary "bubble glass" technique that transformed perceived imperfections into stunning artistic expressions. Crafted entirely from recycled bottles following traditional Ryukyu glass methods, this tumbler features Inamine's signature bubble aesthetic—countless delicate air pockets suspended within the warm amber-toned glass that evoke the sparkling waters of Okinawa's seas. The organic distribution of bubbles creates a mesmerizing three-dimensional effect that changes with light and viewing angle, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. The piece demonstrates the sophisticated craftsmanship that earned Inamine national and international recognition. Rather than using chemical additives, Inamine achieved his distinctive coloration through natural materials including rice bran, turmeric, black sugar, coral, and charcoal—a technique that produces the warm, pottery-like texture characteristic of his finest work. This tumbler represents an important period in contemporary Ryukyu glass history, when Inamine elevated traditional craft to fine art status. His dedication to using 100% recycled glass, even as commercial manufacturers abandoned the practice, preserved authentic Okinawan glassmaking traditions while pioneering new artistic possibilities. A superior example of Inamine's oeuvre, perfect for collectors of contemporary Japanese glass art or those seeking museum-quality Ryukyu glass. Size Height: 8 cm Width: 8 cm Depth: 8.5 cm Weight 195 g Condition Excellent condition with minimal signs of use. The glass shows no chips, cracks, or structural damage. Artist Profile Seikichi Inamine (1940-2023) was a pioneering master of Ryukyu glass who revolutionized Okinawan glassmaking by transforming traditional techniques into contemporary art. Born in Naha, Okinawa, Inamine began his career at age 14 at the historic Okuhara Glass Factory, where he spent decades mastering traditional methods. In 1988, Inamine established the Mid-Air Glass Blowing Studio Rainbow in Yomitan Village, where he developed his signature "bubble glass" technique. While commercial manufacturers viewed air bubbles as flaws and switched to pure compounds, Inamine embraced these characteristics, deliberately incorporating bubbles to create stunning visual effects that became his artistic signature. Inamine's commitment to using 100% recycled glass honored the post-war origins of Ryukyu glass, when artisans melted discarded bottles from American military bases. His innovative use of natural materials—coral soil, rice bran, turmeric, charcoal, and even curry powder—to create colors and textures set his work apart from mass-produced tourist souvenirs. Recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 1994, Inamine received numerous prestigious awards including the Stockholm Peace Exhibition Peace Contribution Award (2002), the Contemporary Artist Glory Award (2001), and the 51st Ryukyu Shimpo Prize for Cultural and Artistic Achievement (2015). His work is celebrated internationally, with exhibitions at institutions including the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. Inamine's innovative techniques, particularly his "bubble glass" and "Domon" (soil pattern) methods, profoundly influenced Ryukyu glass aesthetics and elevated the medium to fine art status. His legacy continues through his son Seiichiro Inamine, who now leads Studio Rainbow. NOITICE : The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.