My apologies that none of the pieces herein are available, having been sold to collectors around the planet some time ago. They sold for more than most of us mortals can realistically afford, but if you really have a desire to pursue owning such a piece, you might start the process of having one created for you by contacting Don.

The blades on all of these knives are of so-called Damascus steel, which was hand-forged and are beautiful examples of the application of ancient methods to modern materials. Don Fogg and I worked together for many years producing a body of work known as Kemal knives, and these comprise the bulk of our gallery. However, there are also two knives with blades by Rob Hudson of Maryland ("Hudson Dragon" and "Hudson Falcon"), and one by Steve Schwarzer of Florida ("Viking Wind"). Variously alloyed steels have been forge-welded together at near melting temperatures under the hammer and then repeatedly folded until the patterns clearly visible in most of the pieces were established, and finally brought out by acid-etching the metal. There is no way to explain what a skilled accomplishment blades of this kind represent. Perhaps, if you tried to make one yourself, as I have, you might ultimately understand why this is indeed world-class work of an incredibly high order.

Most of the handles are carved out of fossil walrus ivory–which is an ancient and therefore ‘green' substance without negative impact on living marine mammals. Some are ebony or dramatically grained walnut. The fittings, guards and such have likewise been carved out of cold-rolled steel, half-hard brass, or bronze. Some are inlaid with gold and/or semi-precious minerals.

Over the years I have noticed with interest the many ways in which folks react to pieces such as the ones pictured here. Many times I have spent the best part of a long weekend behind a table at a national knife show and simply observed as visitors interacted with our knives and those of other makers. My sense is that knives–especially so-called ‘art knives'–are uniquely suited to serve as ‘shadow-chasers'. In fact, it is frequently the case that people who pick them up and handle them make remarks which bear more on their own ‘shadow issues' than on the actual object which they are holding. It has been my observation that these finely crafted objects take on a role as intuitive icons and behave like mirrors for the inner-being of the person who is interacting with them. Some people shudder, some smile, some frown, some laugh......and some make a remark which surprises even them.

Interesting, don't you think so?

Enjoy,
Murad Sayen