Kazuto Kanno

The Living Blade: The Woodworking Art of Yonezawa
The Yonezawa Ichihon Knife, a traditional craft passed down in the Minano district of Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a large blade known as "Sarukiri," made using traditional techniques of wood carving. The material used is a wood called "Aburanko," a type of koshiabura tree native to this area, whose softness creates a beautiful grain and elegant texture. A representative example, "Osumappo," originated during the Edo period when Takayama Uesugi of Yonezawa encouraged farmers to take up winter side jobs. It has been cherished as a talisman to ward off evil and as a lucky charm believed to bring prosperity. Its powerful yet gentle shape continues to convey the culture and charm of Yonezawa even today.