Takeshi Saji is a renowned third-generation Japanese blacksmith from Takefu, a city with over 700 years of knife-making history. He is widely recognized as one of Japan's most distinguished master craftsmen, celebrated for his visually stunning and technically precise hand-forged knives. 

Biography and professional achievements 

• Early apprenticeship: Born in 1948, Saji began his apprenticeship at age 14 under the guidance of his uncle, a respected local smith. He also attended a blacksmith training school to learn forging and metallurgy.
• Traditional Craftsman: By age 30, his father and master, Harukichi Saji, acknowledged his mastery of the craft and allowed him to produce knives under his own name. In 1992, he was officially certified as a Dentoukougeishi, or "Traditional Master Craftsman," a title that requires decades of skill and experience.
• Founder of Takefu Knife Village: Saji was a founding member of the Takefu Knife Village, a cooperative established in the 1970s by a group of young blacksmiths. Their goal was to revitalize the local knifemaking tradition by innovating knife designs while preserving traditional methods.
• Focus on custom knives: Originally specializing in hunting and outdoor blades, Saji expanded his expertise into creating unique, custom kitchen knives. 

Signature techniques and styles 

Saji combines traditional hammer-forging techniques with a bold, contemporary design sensibility. His distinct knives are known for their: 

• Exceptional Damascus finishes: He forges his own Damascus steel with unique finishes, including Rainbow, Diamond, and Black Nickel patterns.
• Razor-sharp edges: His blades are known for their exceptional hardness and sharp, precise cutting edges.
• Creative use of handle materials: In addition to classic handle options, Saji is known for using custom and exotic materials like ironwood, stag horn, and cow bone.
• Traditional and high-tech steels: He works with a variety of steels, including traditional Japanese carbon steels, as well as modern high-performance alloys like R2/SG2 and VG-10. 

Legacy and reputation 

Takeshi Saji's dedication to his craft has made him a celebrated and prolific artist. Even in his eighties, he continues to produce functional works of art from his workshop in Echizen, and his knives are highly sought after by chefs and collectors worldwide.