Shigefusa - The Japan Woodworker Catalog

A very interesting account of handmade knives Scott just sent me:

The Japan Woodworker Catalog: "Shigefusa Hamono Introduction

There is a certain poetry about the knives crafted by Tokifusa Iizuka, one of the most revered smiths in a land that holds Hocho — kitchen knives — sacred.

His knives are simple and rustic yet at the same time, elegant. Light dances upon the smooth blades and the delicate, wave like pattern of steel folded many times within. Wedges of black buffalo horn connect the rounded, unvarnished wood handles to the polished blade in a sensuous mix of textures. Beveled edges slice pristinely through an onion, eliminating the spray that causes tears."