The Nigara Kurozome Ginsan line as a member of the very popular and highly artistic Anmon family, has the same beautiful high contrast raindrop damascus pattern. This line only has traditional single bevel offerings, so I see it as the stainless alternative to the equally beautiful Anmon Blue 2 line.
The “Anmon” design was inspired by the rippling water of the Anmon Waterfalls, cascading from the foot of the World Heritage Shirakami Mountains adjacent to the city of Hirosaki. Old growth beech and pine encompass the Anmon falls where the cool mountain stream cascades down from the precipitous rocks above. The sight of the rippling waterfall has enchanted its visitors with its mystical power.
However, a interview with the Toshiju Yoshizawa reveals the personal inspiration for him, he said it was Andy Warhol's painting of John Lennon, specifically the fascinating distortion in his glasses that lead him to this design.
The pattern we see on this line is similar to the pattern on the SG2 line: dense yet highly identifiable. The matte surface combines with the Kurozome finish really enhances the contrast between the darker and brighter steels. As this line constist only single bevel knives, the blades all have a secondary bevel, so these blades can ba sharpend without damaging the beautiful finish that Nigara have put on.
The artistic look is backed up with solid performance, as the core steel of this line, the Ginsan steel has a complete stainlessness, while being quite easy to sharpen, thanks to the composition of low alloy except chromium. I see this line as a good line for enthusiasts and collectors, who want that one nice looking Yanagiba at home that can also be used occationally.
