Handmade custom knife - Knife Legends - Featured Artists, Ryuichi Kawamura, John Young

Featured Artists

Occasionally we come across artists who we feel are deserving of more attention and interest from collectors. In the case of the two gentlemen listed on this page, Michael Jankowsky and Jean-Pierre Sucheras, it's safe to say that their work is exceptional and worthy of the highest praise.

Michael Jankowsky: Born in Luben-Spreewald in the state of Brandenburg Germany, this self-taught cutler was first exposed to hunting knives by his father, and that awakened his interest in collecting antique and modern knives. Trained as a cabinet maker, Michael began to make his own knives in 1997 using ATS-34 Steel. In 1999 he exhibited at his first professional show, IMA Munich, and became a member of the DMG-German Knife Makers Guild. He is also a member of the Italian Knife Makers Guild.

In 2001 he received the “Best Art Work” award at the Munich Show, and since then he has made only integral knives from advanced powdered steels such as ELMAX, CPM and S30V. Many of his knives have elegant engraving, which he believes make his fixed-blades unique and special. His favorite knife maker is German Dietmar Kressler, who he believes is a kindred spirit artistically. He also credits German maker Peter Herbst with providing much needed technical information about knife making. And finally, Michael loves to work with Antique Elephant Ivory, which he feels is the most elegant of handle materials, and his favorite blade shapes include the drop-point and classic chute.

When asked what kinds of knives we can expect from him in the future Michael says he is working on a very special full inter-frame interpretation of the Loveless Big Bear as well as some unique folders. And although he does not appear at any American Knife Shows at the moment he hopes this will change in the near future.

Current delivery time runs from 3 to 9 months depending on the model.

Comments on Michael Jankowsky From Manfred Melzer of Ars Culturi:

”Precious materials decorate his handles, which are designed functionally, one could say almost ergonomically. M.J. simply knows what really matters. If you hold one of his knives it immediately feels good. The balance makes for easy handling - which is pure pleasure from the first moment.”

Sincerely Manfred Melzer

Click here to view Michael's knives

Jean-Pierre Sucheras: Born in the old French Cutlery town of Thiers, self-taught cutler Jean-Pierre has been making custom knives for 18 years. A member of the Italian Knife Guild, he has also been exhibiting at knife shows for more than 15 years. Most recently he won "Best Folder” and “Best Table” award at the 2006 Paris Knife Show. Even more remarkable are the two "Un des Meilleurs Ouvriers de France” awards Jean-Pierre has received, one in 2004 for the Multi-blade category and one in 2007 for the Hunting Knives category. Only eight knife makers have received this award in the last century, and the prize itself is personally awarded by the President of France!

Currently he has two professions, one as a highly regarded custom knife maker and the other as a fabricator of elaborate high-precision prototype aircraft parts for the French Ministry of Defense. He is especially fond of Antique Tortoise and Antique Ivory, as well as all kinds of beautiful natural materials. And his wide knowledge of various manufacturing techniques allows him the freedom to create masterful custom knives in many genres – especially elaborate and fantastic multi-blade creations.This wide palate of technique also allows him to create wonderful knives that suite his mood and personality at any given time.

Some of Jean-Pierre’s favorite knife makers are Kaj Embretsen, Michael Walker, Wolfgang Loerchner and Tim Herman. He especially admires these makers for their elegant shapes and pure fluent lines. Jean-Pierre also currently exhibits at the Paris and Milan Knife Shows but hopes to do the same in America some time soon. He is also keen to share the beauty and invention of traditional French Cutlery, which has been updated with modern manufacturing techniques and design, with collectors around the world.

Current delivery times run from 4-12 months depending on the model.

Comments on Jean-Pierre Sucheras From Charly Bennica:

“Jean-Pierre and I both started making knives at the same time in the early 90s, and from the start we shared the same philosophy about our work. Like me Jean-Pierre believes in clean original design combined with the very best fit and finish. He also believes in constantly looking for ways to improve his work so his knives are steadily getting better.

Even though he is not yet well known in America, I recommend his knives to every knife “addict” who enjoys my work. I am sure they will fall in love with his unique designs and they are certain to be knocked-out by the fit and finish of his creations.”

Best Regards Charly Bennica

Click here to view Jean-Pierre's knives

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