Suminagashi Ikebana Knife - Tanoshimu

Product Description for Suminagashi Ikebana Knife - Tanoshimu

Maker: Yoshindo Yoshihara (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 88296
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Total length: 5.70 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.70 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.18 in.
Item weight: 3.50 oz.
Shipment weight: 7.12 oz.
Blade: Suminagashi (Damascus) forged from carbon steels with a cutting edge formed from Tamahagane ('jewel steel'), extracted from iron sand using a technique developed over 1500 years ago and wrought iron
Handle: Suminagashi (Damascus) forged by Yoshindo from old stock Japanese steels
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 greatest 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 for their purity results in his unique blades: “The combination of ‘bad’ and ‘good’ steel and superb forging technique is what gives a blade its personality and beauty, just like a human being. A perfect blade has no personality,” says Yoshihara.
The Tamahagane cutting edge is forged welded to damascus forged by Yoshindo from old stock Japanese carbon steels. The elegant wood grain pattern continues throughout this utility knife.
The blade is engraved with Yoshindo's maker's mark set in 24kt gold. The text reads Tanoshimu, roughly translating as "enjoyment" or "pleasure". The engraving is done with a small hammer and series of very fine chisels.
The chisel-ground edge is exceptional for detailed, precision cuts such as those required for Ikebana. Ikebana is a Zen flower arranging style that exemplifies 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, this kiridashi has exceptional fit and finish throughout.


Availability: Not currently available