Knives with a generational edge
- Manuel’s master and mentor was his father
- His knives are both functional and collectible
- The materials he works with influence his designs
Manuel Fernández Rovira carries forward a multi-generational heritage of knife making in Albacete, where the craft has flourished over the centuries. "I grew up in my family workshop, observing and learning from my father. Although I initially did not pursue a career as craftsman, I was destined to become one," he says. Manuel took over the reins of Cuchillería Fernández, founded by his family in 1930, where he creates traditional knives with a contemporary twist by hand. He works with unique materials, such as fossils, minerals, shells and bone, which inspire him to make blades that balance heritage, creativity and functionality.
INTERVIEW
I specialise in acid etching and engraving, but one of my main skills is to create models that are very different from each other. I like to constantly innovate and avoid repetition. The materials I use drive the creative process, and each piece must develop its own identity.
I am a fourth-generation artisan who grew up in the family workshop. I have always been fascinated by transforming wood, stone and metal into objects with a life of their own. My first solo creation was a classic Albacete knife, made from bull horn with silver ferrules. The making process is almost magical.
I received the Círculo Fortuny Award and had the privilege of collecting it at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in Madrid. This experience made me realise that I need to innovate and take my work into a more contemporary and artistic direction, without losing the artisanal essence that defines me.
Sadly, yes. It is an ancient craft, and although cutlery production in my city continues to grow, true handcrafted production is gradually disappearing. The few artisans in activity try to pass on their knowledge to those interested, who are often family members. For instance, I am mentoring my younger brother.
