Head of the Dragon Ikebana Knife

Product Description for Head of the Dragon Ikebana Knife

Maker: Yoshindo Yoshihara (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 4408
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 1.50 in.
Total length: 5.75 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.75 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.23 in.
Item weight: 3.36 oz.
Shipment weight: 6.08 oz.
Blade: Tamahagane ('jewel steel'), extracted from iron sand using a technique developed over 1500 years ago and wrought iron
Handle: Tamahagane and wrought iron with 24kt gold dragon inlay
Sheath: Accompanied by kiri wood presentation box
Description: This ikebana knife is the work of master swordsmith Yoshindo Yoshihara. Yoshihara, who is considered to be among Japan's best living swordsmiths creates masterworks that have a living spirit all of their own. He begins by forging the cutting edge from tamahagane (jewel steel), which is extracted from iron sand using techniques developed over 1500 years ago. A mix of steels, arranged for their imperfections as much as their purity results in his unique blades: “The combination of ‘bad’ and ‘good’ steel and superb forging technique is what gives it blade its personality and beauty, just like a human being. A perfect blade has no personality,” says Yoshihara.
Yoshihara has used traditional engraving methods to create a dragon's head. The engraving is done with a small hammer and series of very fine chisels. This was then inlaid with 24kt gold. On the reverse, Yoshindo has engraved his maker's mark.
The chisel ground edge is exceptional for detailed, precision cuts such as those required for Ikebana. Ikebana is a Zen flower arranging style that strives for simplicity and naturalness. So as to maintain the freshness of the flowers, the stems are cut under water using this traditionally styled knife. This technique will also work for traditional Western flower arranging. The blade has been hand satin finished and has a keen edge. Captivating for the eye and comfortable in the hand.
As you would expect, exceptional fit and finish throughout.


Availability: Not currently available