Master Armorer Makes a Damascus Shield

[@mahrze]

"even fewer of you know before I was an armorer, I was a painter" This guy was made to be an artist, mad respect.

[@ThatWorks]

You are right about that!

[@brickpuncher1429]

Armorers and Blacksmiths are really just artists, especially expert Armorers and Blacksmiths.

[@KainYusanagi]

@@brickpuncher1429 Mhm. They just work in a different medium.

[@sundaedream6088]

@@ThatWorks can we see some of his paintings? 🙏🏻🥺

[@Penn.Dragon]

You mean he was born an artist? I concur sir.

[@lukasgropl2166]

It always impresses me so much that a single person can incapsulate such a variety of skills, not only focusing on the work itself, but also the ability to appreciate art, interpret myths and stories into a tangible form brought to physical materials. Ilya is and always will be one, if not the most imressive people to me because of it. And this shield represents all of the reasons why.

[@bobbyjeffsupremelordofcraz3532]

Truly, he is a real renaissance man.

[@rpetersen2]

Couldn't agree more!! Amazing

[@thesuit4820]

He probably doesn't spend as much time watching KZbin as we do.

[@chrisegbertky]

​@@thesuit4820the teuth!

[@jonoslay6504]

Just imagine the armorers of old and what they could do

[@draven86]

This is talent at master level. Even a blacksmith with 50 years of experience would be so impressed by Ilya's work

[@jorgeguanche5327]

Amén!

[@patuxentvalleyforge]

Check out thak ironworks channel if you like this type of repousse work. A lot of talent here on KZbin!

[@geneticdisorder1900]

@@patuxentvalleyforge Love Thai’s work and personality ! Awesome artist he is !

[@lilyayanami]

I get documentary vibes from this video and I love it! The videography and editing feels so spot on. The buckler looks absolutely fantastic . Watching the historical and artistic considerations going into the project makes me appreciate the final piece even more.

[@ThatWorks]

That was the goal! Thank you very much!

[@kjkallio4393]

As an artist, I try to never idolize anyone, but its so hard to not try and idolize Ilya for his insane work ethic, great job as always, cant wait for more.

[@dariusus9870]

But as a non-artist, do you idolize someone? You artist you.

[@kjkallio4393]

@@dariusus9870 Nope, when you dig deep enough they end up just people

[@SeeMick1]

I didn't know Ilya was a trained painter, but every time he designs or draws something, I'm amazed at how beautiful it is.

[@ThatWorks]

Yea, his sketches are better then his metal work and thats saying something.

[@oinngmr3177]

Ilya can only ever impress me. His passion for authenticity, his vast knowledge of periods in history, his attention to detail and just watching him entirely focused on the finery of engraving as much as he is on drawing out material is so satisfying. It fills out a need I never knew I had.

[@wolswildcamping1257]

Hard to get to grips with the fact that something so beautiful was made mostly with a hammer. Bravo!

[@shannonlute2735]

Your work has been blowing my mind since I met you back in south Florida, Illya👍

[@ilyaalekseyev3589]

Thank you

[@davewebster5120]

Ilya's skill at all forms of metalwork is unbelievable. He's still a pretty young dude, too. I love his humility and fresh perspective to every new piece he works on.

[@thefunfairvip]

Wow. Superb. The best thing you ever did was leave that "man at arms" garbage. Absolutely beautiful work and your comments on the uselessness of damascus steel weapons is spot on. Respect to you.

[@tonyhann4530]

Dude. I have no words. This is phenominal work!

[@ThatWorks]

Thanks for watching this amazing build video! We look forward to sharing the full interview videos soon and be sure to tell us what you want to see us build next! Join our discord here : discord.gg/zZ7vJW5MUp

[@harlequinems]

Hey guys, quick question, when you're hammering hot metal, and the oxidised flakes are kicking up, do you worry about hammering them back into the metal causing inclusions?

[@stephen33]

I am glad you made something that you really enjoyed working on. You have so much passion. I hope you aren't still angry with me, I apologize to you. I very happy to see you happy.

[@aurorafauna4195]

20:05 I don't know why, but I always find those flakes coming off really satisfying to see.

[@justinpyle3415]

I would love to see some fancy guantlets!

[@aurorafauna4195]

@@justinpyle3415 I'll watch whatever Ilya makes

[@crezychameau]

Ilya's work is so overwhelming... There's just not any "satisfactory" piece, everything is turned up to 11, and executed marvellously. It's crazy how you're at the same time creative enough to design such pieces, skilled enough to include so many different techniques, and patient enough to bring everything to it's beautiful end. Congratulations, as always your work is as gorgeous as it is impressive

[@dav6913]

I tip my hat to you sir You are a true craftsman I could spend the next 40 years practicing and still aspire to produce work at that level

[@seekerend]

This and "Towards an Aesthetic understanding of Arms and Armour" have to be the best videos I have seen. Love the educational and documentarian approach.

[@ThatWorks]

That's awesome. I think we often get stuck making "entertaining" videos, but these educational types are our favorite to make!

[@m1ste2tea]

Ilya is brilliant, very smart and also good in front of the camera, not a common combination. I hope he keeps them videos coming!

[@roblane2712]

Finding out that you are a painter makes sence to me! your a great talent well done.

[@Rhein997]

one of these days i should be so lucky to see something like this in person. thank you for sharing your art

[@devildog04172004]

Absolutely stunning. The mosaic pattern reminds me of hoarfrost. Yet another nod in Death’s direction.

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Simply stunning. And yes please, make more armour. I am sure it will be absolutely superb.

[@3X73RM]

You and Kyle Royer are just on a different level of artistry in your work. Such a stunning piece

[@darrenwright9619]

I said ‘That’s amazing’ multiple times throughout and ‘Fuck me, that’s genius’ loudly once at the reveal! Quality work yet again.

[@hzlancer]

Even though I have no knowledge of the craft, the quality of a master's work is self evident!

[@kurtstap]

In a world where ignorance is rewarded, it was such a pleasure to hear you speak intelligently and passionately about your craft but also of the importance of research. You’re a true master and artist in so many ways. I am in awe!

[@Kai-Xi]

14:44 !!!! Those rivets are beautiful! I've only ever seen flat or rounded rivets, a whole new world of possibilities has opened up to me

[@ThatWorks]

He sculpted them and had them cast in bronze.

[@bartdebruijn4599]

Ars gratia artis. You are such a gifted man, Ilya. Truly stunning piece of work!

[@6sixty1gixxer80]

Personally I didn't you were an painter. But one thing I really admire is the level of artistic quality you bring to every piece you do. Thank you

[@TanukiSC]

Absolutely masterful. And the elements of historical works that you are always referencing really makes these truly fun to watch and educational at the same time. Can't wait for more incredible works from you!

[@dlkravcov1973]

Ilya, you are the king of all blacksmith masters!!! The best of the best!!! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@Ktaraga9525]

The forge in fire champion makes another shield and that's a beautiful piece. 🛡️ 🛡️ 🛡️

[@inoli3164]

It’s always a treat toe watch Ilya work with metal as he explains art history! The team nailed the documentary feel for this video.

[@whiskeycreekboy]

Never have I had an emotional reaction to art until today. I would truly be honored to shake the hand of such a artist if we should ever meet.

[@tlowgreen2112]

I don't think there is a better craftsman in the world. What you create is absolutely unbelievable. Everything...just wow. This was unreal

[@Guztenify]

You are crazy, that is so beautiful. Outstanding work!!

[@Laserbeams_]

Not only are you clearly talented, and have honed your craft, but you speak about and it's history beautifully. Thanks for sharing.

[@gorillaforge9461]

Love to see you work again, big inspire for all of us passionated by crafting in fire, you are a legend and a pure enciclopedia.Greatings from ROMANIA! From Alex.

[@blaynemcguire7573]

More stuff like this please 🙏 I love seeing the mix of historical context and knowledge applied to the pieces you are making.

[@tolagan]

What an encridible journey you took me on there, thank you. You really are an incredible artist and a master craftsman.

[@jedtaylor3551]

The ability to visualize always amazes me I turn and react to the beautiful nature of my maternal but the wow factor is in the plus and minus of where to stop Living a life of consequence is a choice you guys have made

[@CML-ng5ez]

Awesome build, I love learning about the history behind this kind of stuff. That's what's great about this channel besides the awesome builds.

[@ShadowFlash42]

People look for inspiration at actors, musicians. I look for inspiration at these men. Briliant armorsmith Iliya strikes again.

[@ambuknight]

An Artist who froges metal into art. I think we all knew boss.. however we where proven on what type of artist you truly are. This here is beautiful, history, details the list is small but the dictionary has so many words that we cannot just say one word one adjective or even a simple descriptive sentence or phrase or talk in all mannerisms there are, to truly express the art you have shown to the world. Bravo boss bravo.

[@dadsbarmy254]

Your artistry and dedication continues to leave me astounded, every time. Beautiful.

[@homemadehistory7537]

You showed that a traditional craftsman not only giving the item he mede, a use and purpose, he or she gives the item a soul by adding some fine art. And at the end it is not only that it feels right in hand it is about feeling right for the eye as well. For me it is necessary that a gun I guld or a knife or whatever it will be has an overall look that pleases the eye and is a joy to use. before I start working I do a lot of research and do some scatches and drawings and these will come together on the materials I use. Even if there is a weak spot in a gunstock I try to do the repair a way that will fit to the item and please the eye. And if there is no decoration at all it is still posible to make it pleasing by the perfect outer lines and shape and make it look elegant by simplicity. Thaks a lot for this nice video......

[@andrewhesling7875]

Excellent workmanship on all your pieces and a good history lesson too!!

[@connorpollock6087]

You outdid yourself with this piece. It is superb. On a personal level, I love it when you post things with chasing and repousse. I got into it as an artform because of your work, and it is the only forging I can really do in an apartment the same way I could in a studio. It has one of the lowest costs of entry in metalwork-really you just need some yard sale cast iron, a hammer, some music wire, and access to a park with pine trees that someone pruned poorly. It makes me really happy to see it promoted, especially on channels that get a lot of bladesmithing traffic since for many of us that is our introduction to metal. I always learn something watching you.

[@ThatWorks]

Love hearing this and I totally agree!

[@l33t4g3ntL4rg0]

The artistry and passion Ilya brings to every project is amazing and love the history lessons that are woven into these videos as well

[@kampferjam8899]

I came to see how you roll your edges and stayed completely enthralled watching this come to life. Definitely felt like I was watching art being forged. Thank you thank you for this. Weapons are amazing but armour is a completely different level.

[@TheMkdvs]

As always Ilya your work is beautiful

[@OuroborosArmory]

Next level. Well done man. The strings were a beautiful touch to combine with the color scars

[@C0n7ax]

I just want to say how impressed I am by your little independent team and the phenomenal content and pieces you create. Ilya is one of those master smiths whose work is out of my budget now, but I can tell that the quality and price of his works are not going to diminish. A real life Hattori Hanzo in the flesh. Someday I hope to be able to commission a family heirloom piece, I hope it's still less than 6 figures by the time I can afford it. Congratulations and here is to much more success in your guys' future, stay awesome and independent.

[@ДмитрийОникиенко-е3у]

Отличная работа!!! Всегда с интересом наблюдаю за работой Ильи и всей команды! Желаю успехов Илье! Есть куда расти в профессиональном плане!))))

[@ChuckCanada1]

thanks for putting in the extra effort in having good sound quality, b roll footage, good lenses and really doing a good job editing. this is top notch and just saying you videos keep getting better and better. Merry Christmas Ilya.

[@michaeltrimble7680]

Dude, that was an INCREDIBLE history lesson and skill demonstration!!

[@VeganShpegan]

Ilya such a great master! this project shows his really mad skills!

[@Veklim]

Ilya, you've outdone yourself again, this is just beautiful, encapsulates everything you were trying to display in elegant fashion. Both intricate in detail and simple in form, any noble worth his salt would have been proud to have this on his guard arm.

[@Azalgard]

Omg The video has a great vibe and with such a masterpiece Ilya really shows where he came from (I mean after painting it seems like)

[@Zaneybaby02]

I have watched countless hours of smithing videos, primarily blade smiths. I've always had an affinity for armorsmiths in video games and lore, and it astounds me I have never checked out any videos before this one. I am glad to have found this. This thing is beautiful. EDIT: You weren't finished when I wrote this. Its incredible.

[@ajmarshall1021]

You are definitely an artist ,respect !

[@EmmettMcMullan]

What a wonderful project! The detail shots throughout are such a feast to savor

[@FeuerToifel]

once again, ilya proving that he is a true master of his art. well done!

[@Harry-bc2dn]

I am immensely grateful to you for sharing your knowledge and work -- I am always left amazed at the wonders you produce.

[@COSMOKRAT_616]

absolutely gorgeous piece of work, Ilya. the chasing and sculpture work is incredible. what an astonishing classical piece.

[@Tekdruid]

That's an incredible amount of detail just on the hair alone. And the end result with all the little embellishments is gorgeous.

[@jonesy7425]

I love, ♥️, LOVE, the historical aspects behind these videos. I always feel like I'm bettering myself while watching them. Thank you.

[@Myndness]

beautiful work Ilya!

[@arthurmalavasic6788]

Ilya is an absolute master artisan. Watching him work and listening to him explain his process is fascinating. Thank you so much for another amazing video.

[@Aparviel]

Some day Ilya's creations will be in a museum for sure.

[@lut5ch3r]

I am in awe and I envy the level of craftmanship that had to be aquired to get such a masterpiece done.

[@redwolfknives3174]

Amazing!!! Extraordinary build! That’s so beautiful it almost doesn’t seem possible! Ilya hits another grand slam! Amazing talent!

[@krissteel4074]

Its kind of an interesting life journey, when I was younger I did a BA majoring in painting and drawing, along with some sculpture, fibre arts, illustration and design. At the time and it was very hard to get work in those fields that kept you out of poverty, so I ended up doing interior design, picture framing, panel beating and for the majority of my life ended up doing radio engineering with microwave radios, lasers and telco transmission systems of all things. Now chronically ill and winding down with what time I've got left I'm making knives full time- so all those old lessons do come back to you. How to design, colour theory, composition and thematic structure all play a big part in moving a piece from being 'artisanal' and 'craft' to what is technically fine art. I honestly think your armour piece is worthy of being called fine art. Its an anachronism in an era of smart drones, automated fire control systems and energy weapons, therefore like any good art its functionally useless to the owner except for the pleasure of owning it. Plus containing sculptural and story qualities expressed in the media of metal to depict a story or convey a moment in time snapshot that may or may not have happened as a myth. Then composed around your own interpretation of that myth- which is important, however I think to some extent you might have thrown a bit more of your own interpretations into it rather than some expectations of what people would expect to be in it. But time is what it is because we're always short of it and I think given a little more of that would have let you focus a bit more on the 'you' elements. Maybe something to consider if you pick another mythic story one day, is to have it in the back of your head during the quiet moments and draw in some of the more esoteric or lateral variations on a theme over time. I really think Ilya should do well with this in the art knife show, a lot of times you see art knives as being a bit of a mess of expensive materials with awful composition, come away a bit disappointed that the artist sometimes missed the point and got stuck in some artisan mind-set of perfection. Sometimes its not about the shiny diamonds or gold inlay, its what it makes the viewer feel when they see it beyond the materials and colours. We didn't get that today though, so well done Ilya and keep rocking on nailing these things

[@dersaegefisch]

I guess that one guy who once commented that he had never seen Ilya make mosaic damascus is very very silent right now. ...either that, or he is very glad he "made" you do so much of it.

[@Inocyde]

what a wonderful world where we can see master craftmen like you creating and showing their art

[@ReluctantLightningForge]

That buckler is absolutely amazing! Thank you for bringing such a beautiful piece of art into this world and sharing with us!

[@asvarien]

I just looked at the Art Knife Invitational 2022 gallery and holy crap on a cupcake!!! The level of crafsmanship shown in those pieces is on another planet. And Ilya's pieces fit right in there with the best of the best.

[@ThatWorks]

It is truly humbling being in the same room with such high art!

[@guilhermeviotti]

By far one of the best videos/projects I've seen on the channel. Maybe because I was surprised every step of the way, not quite knowing what I would see next. Amazing art work! And Damascus always looks so beautiful!

[@jellagonilla1927]

This is so masterful, thank you for showing the build to us. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

[@TheMaestroso]

Gorgeous work, Ilya!

[@schmithjagen7228]

Someday you will be going somewhere man, i know it youre so talented as and artist and smith

[@briantrace9945]

Awesome Ilya, you continue to go from strength to strength and produce stunning works of art. Your myth interpretation and how you skilfully formed your story was truly inspiring. Thank you.

[@lynxg4641]

Another insane piece Ilya, always love watching your "personal" builds, they are so intricately detailed. Your carving/chasing/sculpting skills are insane and a pleasure to watch. This will be another fine piece to add to your collection.

[@19Chrisi97]

It turned out fabulously! Seeing you work fills me with joy! Bravo Ilya!👍

[@WitchKing99]

I am following AWEme for about 7 years now. This is were I got introduced into the beautiful art of blacksmithing and working with metal. I always loved these kind of videos but this one here just made it to the top for me! The attention to detail is incredible, the use of ornaments in copper and silver are a great addition to the stunning damascus mosaic and the design is not just amazing because it looks nice, there is even a whole story behind it, expressing why this Masterpiece is looking like this! For me as a lover of art in general it can't get better than this! Thank you so much for making this video and showing us not only the process but also the thoughts behind it!

[@ThatWorks]

This is what we love to hear! Thanks for watching and sharing with us!

[@joshlego4775]

This deserves so many more views.

[@justinpyle3415]

This was simply masterful!. The shield, the video, everything!

[@thetcaseaway4306]

Amazing production, the shield and the whole video, editing, sound and all. Can't believe I only find it just now.

[@daveramey5099]

So much talent and knowledge in such a young man. Absolutely astounding.

[@murgon7129]

Once again, Ilya has outdone himself. Beautiful piece, as always.

[@jamesdavis-hc2su]

I love watching you work. It's never just another thing for you. It's a living breating piece of art. Your dedication, expertise, and care when pulling the art out of the canvas is beyond beautiful.

[@vexaris1890]

really love the details Ilya puts in his works.

[@spis_dritt]

Truly breathtaking. I love mythology and blacksmithing. This was an amazing video to watch.

[@kroojohn]

Once again, I am amazed by what you have created! Your skill and talent is just amazing. Well done on creating a beautiful piece.

[@chewher4171]

Well done, I enjoyed the team sharing their knowledge and works of art with the world.

[@Danem2186]

That buckler is just beautiful.

[@jameskeal8957]

Your talent and taste is beyond most ability for many people. Your audience has learned more about ability to the artist that you are and what you'll become in the future.

[@JaapGrootveld]

Such a large damascus plate that in itself is already an achievement. I think a little more development is needed in terms of refinement and design, but I know there's often no time for that. All in all it is an inspiring one. Tanks.

[@rcflyboyjr]

As usual absolutely beautiful. Always live watching your builds. You pit so much research, history and knowldge in your build videos. Thank you for taking us with you on your journies

[@02370clement]

It's always nice to get out of our confort zone, especially when you are an artist, I enjoyed watching you having fun.

[@dergrauewachter634]

This is marvelous!! Awesome art and style! I enjoy every new piece you design and craft. Thanks for showing, how you work and describing all in detail. Kind regards from Germany, Holger