Overview
This Kiridashi knife is the work of master swordsmith Yoshindo Yoshihara. Kiridashi are small knives used throughout Japan for doing all sorts of tasks. They are used in woodworking for marking and for detail tasks around the house. In the past, these knives were even carried by school children, who would use them to sharpen pencils, cut wood, and the like. The chisel-ground edge is exceptional for detailed, precise cuts such as those required for Ikebana. Ikebana is a Zen flower arranging style that exemplifies simplicity. To maintain the freshness of the flowers, the stems are cut under water using this traditionally styled knife. This technique also works well for traditional Western flower arranging.
This Kiridashi is in the Kanto style with a forged ring to give higher control.
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 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 forge-welded to wrought iron by Yoshindo. The blade is engraved with Yoshindo's maker's mark set in 24kt gold. The text reads 'Gang Eng', roughly translating as 'Vast and Expansive Space'. The engraving is done with a small hammer and fine chisels. The blade has been hand satin finished and has a keen edge. Captivating to the eye and comfortable in the hand.
As you would expect, exceptional fit and finish throughout.
Comes in a wooden box. Excellent condition.