Takada no Hamono
Blade Sharpener – Mr. Mitsuaki Takada (Sakai City, Osaka)
After gaining experience at the Ashi-Hamono, also located in the Sakai district, he became independent, renovating an old, vacant traditional house by himself to open his own workshop.
In Sakai, Osaka, the process of knife making is divided among different professionals. This system of division of labor allows professionals from various fields to collaborate in creating a single masterpiece. Among them, Mr. Takada, who I will introduce today, stands out as a craftsman responsible for blade sharpening. He has been delivering knives around the world, noted for their combination of beauty and sharpness.
Information
2-3-11 Higashi Shimmeicho, Sakai Ward, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture
mitsuaki-t@takadanohamono.com
http://www.takadanohamono.com/
Collection of Works
Suiboku
This is a representative work of Takada no Hamono and has a unique finish that is one of a kind in the world.
As the name suggests, the finish is reminiscent of ink wash paintings, resulting in a truly original work that hasn’t been seen before.
The production process involves numerous steps and an attention to detail, which limits the production to only a few pieces per day.
Compared to the initial works, the current (as of 2022) finish has a stronger contrast between the ink wash and mirrored surfaces, enhancing their shine.
The changes over time reflect the persistent passion for knife-making, and the ongoing trial and error that is undertaken daily. It’s clear to see how the artisan’s dedication to their craft is reflected in their work.
Reika
This knife is adorned with a hammer pattern resembling flower petals.
Although the design is simple, it has a single point of attraction that draws the eye, resulting in a well-balanced piece.
This knife is also particularly popular among overseas fans.
Hanabi
The knife is engraved with a fireworks pattern, a charming design that evokes the feeling of Japanese summers.
Although a knife is essentially just a tool, adding this kind of playful element can brighten your mood every time you use it, and it’s guaranteed to make your daily cooking even more enjoyable.
Regarding the fireworks engraving, it is said that he initially carved the metal himself to create it.
Suminagashi
The term “suminagashi” refers to a pattern made from layers of metal.
Also known as Damascus, it is a popular design both domestically and internationally.
Even if you search the world, no two patterns are the same, and the charm lies in the unique taste of each knife.
Takada’s suminagashi, combined with the ink finish, creates an even more fantastical design, resulting in a work of art that absolutely cannot be replicated by others.
Honyaki
“Honyaki” refers to a knife made from a single piece of steel, which is among the most valuable of all knives.
Because it requires advanced skills to produce, it is said that there are only a handful of blacksmiths in Japan who can make honyaki knives.
As they are made from solid material, they take longer to sharpen compared to composite knives. Moreover, they are extremely delicate, requiring even more careful handling when sharpening. There are only a limited number of sharpeners like Mr. Takada who can beautifully finish a honyaki knife, making these knives generally highly valuable due to their rarity.
