Autumn Leaf Differentially Tempered Katana by Popular Demand

The symbolism of the ginkgo leaf for longevity is about as ancient as the tree itself as well as its nature of duality. The Dragon King Autumn Leaf Katana embodies both of these contrasting metaphors of endurance and finality in its motif. The blackened, moon shaped steel tsuba silhouettes falling gingko leaves as the moon coaxes songs from the grasshopper and bell cricket menuki (handle ornaments), both symbols of good fortune in Japanese culture. The 5160 carbon steel blade features a 1 ½" kissaki (point) and geometry conducive to rigorous cutting without chipping on a wide variety of cutting targets.

The tan tsuka-ito (handle wrap) offests the blackened fuchi and fuchi-kashira on the true traditional and authentic single mekugi (bamboo pin) pinned handle unlike its modern counterparts. The brown textured lacquered saya (scabbard) features a buffalo horn rimmed koiguchi (scabbard mouth) and kurikata (knob) and black sageo (cord).

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About Dragon King

The famed artisans of Dalian have returned to show to the sword world what quality, craftsmanship and ingenuity can produce under the superlative leadership of a true avant-gardist. By the guidance of master designer, Frenchie Jin, the next generation of cutlery enthusiasts will taste the steel of the fabled golden age of swords. 

Ever the student of the arts, Frenchie Jin combined the processes of contemporary mechanical construction and modern science with the classic arts, ancient aesthetics and philosophical imagery to produce many of the legendary pieces known today. Having designed over 600 different cold weapons in his 20-year career, to say that he and his team have mastered and advanced their craft would be an understatement. 

The Dragon King brand does not represent a company that just manufactures products but embodies a group of artisans who have been adeptly trained to duplicate ancient skillsets that can't be automated by machines on an assembly line. Not every blade that is forged becomes a sword. Not every casting that is poured becomes a component of a greater piece. The goal for improvement and innovation starts every day under Frenchie's guidance. 

Not confining their talents to sword making alone, the Dragon King team plies their abilities also to the production of knives, jewelry and other high end art-crafts. And not just in steel alone, these artisans craft wood and leather among many other materials and alloys.  Our journey together has only begun, but the fruits of that labor are coming to bear.

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