Description
In 2010, Coilin O’Dubhghaill asked if I would be prepared to use some gold and silver alloys that had been working on.
This knife is one of a set of six that was designed to showcase some of the series of patinated alloys that had being working on.
Shakudo (gold and copper) and shibuichi (silver and copper) are often seen used in sword fittings and decorative elements with traditional Japanese swords and armour. Using a combination of alloys means that a range of subtle colours can be obtained within a single metal piece.
The pieces of metal had a lovely gentle waney edge from rolling the cast billet and I was keen to incorporate these edges into the final knife.
These knives are made using a new technique for me. It is a combination of traditional riveting and screw fitting. Because the scales are patinated, they need to be handled very carefully and with the minimum of workshop processes. The knives have the central part working as a complete knife, riveted together with titanium sides. The scales are then screwed on as the final process.
The blade is held between phosphor bronze washers and the spring has ‘secret’ internal filework.
