Studio Ghibli's Limited-Edition Howl and Kiki Vases Make a Comeback

Studio Ghibli's Limited-Edition Glass Vases Return

Studio Ghibli fans have a reason to celebrate as two coveted pieces of merchandise have returned to Donguri Sora's official online store. These items, inspired by the magical worlds of Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service, are part of the "Donguri Closet" collection. This collection primarily focuses on home decor and clothing inspired by Studio Ghibli's beloved heroines, offering fans a way to bring a touch of the Ghibli universe into their everyday lives.

The Design and Inspiration Behind the Vases

The Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service glass vases each narrate a story through their intricate designs. The Howl's "Dreamlike Time" vase is a visual homage to Sophie's initial encounter with Howl, the enigmatic wizard. Meanwhile, Kiki's "Tonight's Departure" vase captures the poignant moment when Kiki embarks on her journey from home, a key scene in her coming-of-age story.

Both vases have a retro color palette that deviates slightly from the films' vivid animation style, offering a nostalgic yet sophisticated addition to any room. Each vase stands approximately 6.5 inches tall and is about 2.5 inches wide, making them perfect for displaying long-stemmed flowers.

Availability and Purchase Details

These vases can be purchased individually for around 2,750 yen (~US$18) each, including tax. While Donguri Sora's store caters primarily to residents in Japan, international fans need not worry. The vases often appear on global e-commerce platforms like eBay and Meccha Japan, which provide worldwide shipping options.

The Stories That Inspired the Collection

Both Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service are adaptations brought to life by the renowned Hayao Miyazaki, a co-founder of Studio Ghibli.

Howl's Moving Castle

Adapted from Diana Wynne Jones' novel, Howl's Moving Castle follows the journey of Sophie Hatter, a young woman transformed into an elderly lady by the Witch of the Waste. With her self-esteem deeply affected, Sophie finds solace and hope when she begins working for Howl, navigating a world full of magic and unexpected friendships along the way.

For those interested in exploring the novel, visit Diana Wynne Jones' bibliography.

Kiki's Delivery Service

Based on Eiko Kadono's 1985 novel, Kiki's Delivery Service tells of Kiki, a young witch sent away from home to hone her magical skills. With her chatty cat Jiji, Kiki sets up a delivery service in a new town, facing challenges that test her resolve and strengthen her character.

More on the novel and its impact can be found at Eiko Kadono's profile.

Conclusion

Whether you're a long-time fan of Miyazaki's work or a newcomer eager to explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli, these vases serve as delightful memorabilia to cherish. With their limited availability and special design, the vases meld art with storytelling—capturing the essence of both Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service through timeless glasswork.