The archaeologist of knife engraving
- Charles sculpts and engraves handmade knives
- He is inspired by nature and country walks
- In 2012 he won the Prix de l’Artisanat de Genève
Charles Roulin’s passion for knives started quite by chance. His father wanted him to become a painter and decorator, and in those days (he was born in 1938) it was difficult to say no to one’s father, so that’s what he became. Many years later, at the age of 48, he discovered the art of handmade knives when visiting one of the biggest collectors in the world. It was “love at first sight”, and he soon began to make his own knives and exhibit them at shows. He now dedicates himself to making knives entirely by hand, pouring passion into his work. “I devote so much of myself to my work that whoever owns one of my pieces also owns a little part of my soul,” he says.
Discover his work
INTERVIEW
I started after my son’s untimely death. We used to work together, and I kept feeling his presence in the room next to me: it was too much to bear. I opened my workshop at the age of 50, and my first knives were very simple, unlike the ones I make today.
What I love is creating. I feel a bit like an archaeologist who little by little uncovers an ancient object or bone. I cut into the steel and gradually uncover an animal, a character: little by little my work comes alive. It’s fabulous!
People don’t imagine it takes at least a year and a half to make a knife. With all due respect to my customers, I like to say it’s crazy work for crazy people! When I finish my creations, I need to live with them for a while, it takes time before I can part with them.
Knife making belongs to the entire world, but what makes my work special is the fact I carve and engrave things related to where I live, such as landscapes, animals, or even local people such as winegrowers, blacksmiths and shepherds.
Charles Maurice Roulin
Knife maker
Bernex, Switzerland
Recommended by Claudio Colucci
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+41 763585879
LANGUAGES
French
