“Blade Master” in Zibo: Carving Time with the Knife

In Huantai County, Zibo,there is a special "blade master" — Tian Maojun. In his early years, he made his living by forging iron and crafting knives. After an accidental injury, he had to lay down the blade that had accompanied him for many years. By chance, he noticed the warm, mellow texture of leftover rosewood pieces, and the idea of cross-disciplinary creation took root. He tried to blend the bold strength of steel with the gentle warmth of wood, honing his skill repeatedly on a knife barely an inch long. Following the grain of the wood, he sought out an Eastern charm, reimagined the expressive form of the "scholar's knife" through his own understanding, and forged a unique path of craftsmanship and artistry.