To further promote Seki's blade industry internationally, Gifu Prefecture launched the Honsekito Project, inviting foreign designers to collaborate with traditional craftsmen. This initiative led to a groundbreaking partnership with Atelier oï, a world-renowned design studio that has worked with luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Bulgari.
Combining the perspective of international designers with the deep-rooted tradition of Japanese sword making, Atelier oï has created a simple yet powerful design that captures both elegance and strength. By studying the forging process of the swordsmith and the discipline of Iaido, they came to understand the spiritual essence of Japanese craftsmanship, which is reflected in the final product.
The sword is forged by Fujiwara Kanefusa, a 26th generation swordsmith whose family has passed this craft from the past to the present and into the future. The design of the fittings (koshirae) was inspired by the spiral of DNA, symbolising the eternal connection between generations. From the pommel to the guard, the entire sword is intricately linked in metal, representing an unbroken lineage.
Design:Atelier oï (Switzerland)
Swordsmith: 26th generation Fujiwara Kanefusa
Fittings (Koshirae): Made by Swiss jewellers
Features: Hand-wrapped in premium leather, spiral pattern, 14K gold accents and a gold-plated copper guard.
MADE IN JAPAN
Delivery time around 2 months