Wakan Tanka

Product Description for Wakan Tanka

Maker: Kevin Harvey, M.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 90333
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 14.80 in.
Total length: 25.25 in.
Blade height (at heel): 3.25 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.40 in.
Item weight: 90.00 oz.
Blade: Random pattern damascus by Bertie Rietveld
Bolster: Sculpted solid sterling silver by Jaqueline Brand
Handle: Arizona desert ironwood a cross section of a giraffe leg bone
Description: This larger-than-life knife was an exceptional collaborative effort led by Mastersmith Kevin Harvey. It was created back in 1997 and has been meticulously cared for. It is in new condition and has never been used to cut. Wakan Tanka translates as "the sacred or the divine or great spirit" and refers to the sacred white bison. The white bison symbolizes the coming together of humanity into a oneness of heart, mind, and spirit.
Kevin began the blade with random pattern damascus forged by renowned South African bladesmith Bertie Rietveld. Bertie is well known for his highly controlled forging techniques and tremendous attention to detail. The high contrast damascus show his work well. The bevels have flint stone texturing to emulate stone blades used by early Native Americans.
The massive handle combines sterling silver, Arizona desert ironwood, and giraffe leg bone. The sterling silver rope work spacers and bison head pommel were case and sculpted by Jacqueline Brand. The bison head is tremendously lifelike and shows tremendous skill. The ironwood is carved to match the texture of the bison's coat. A central section of giraffe leg bone adds excellent contrast. A front section is created from braided rawhide. Braided horsehair from Heather Harvey's horse, Scholar, is completed with tin and copper beads.
A very rare find. Exceptional!


Availability: Not currently available