China: Crafting a highly decorative traditional hand-made knife in a small workshop in Yengisar, Xinjiang Province

The small Uighur-dominated oasis of Yengisar (Yingjisha) is known throughout the western Chinese province of Xinjiang for its production of handmade knives. The Small Knife Factory (Pichak Chilik Karakhana / Xiadaochang) employs skilled local craftsmen producing fine knives with inlaid handles. Just about every Uighur man carries a knife, both as a sign of manhood and for the more utilitarian purpose of cutting up melons, and the most valued (and expensive) come from Yengisar.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia