Transforming Metal into Art: Crafting a Sword Masterpiece

[@ThatWorks]

Help support this channel and get some killer perks by becoming a member ! kzbin.info/door/EjEAxdJLOg4k854j-oESfQjoin

[@K594K]

I want to see more projects like this of Ilya.

[@GeorgeC.bladesmith]

They are, but it takes time to make something like this..Two projects from ilya in year is a lot..

[@Jackie-ms3tn]

Check out his heretic build if you haven’t seen it. Fantastic video

[@K594K]

​@@GeorgeC.bladesmith Yes, but I never have enough of Ilya creations!

[@tiagomoreira1938]

I love your original projects, the heretic was beautiful and now this one too

[@martinschroeder8130]

THIS!! This is why I am subscribed to this channel. Don't get me wrong, I love all of your videos but it's when I get to see such splendid works of art from both Matt and Ilya that I am truly inspired and motivated to keep pushing with my own stuff. Truly a work of art Ilya!!

[@MegaDubbe]

i completely agree! I love all your Videos, but watching Ilya create one of his works of art is mesmerizing!

[@Roflskeeter]

This thing has some real final boss energy

[@billythekeg]

Final boss energy... until you beat it, loot it, hit NG+ and kill it again with his own weapon.

[@youtubevoice1050]

A little bit of Soul Edge from "Soul Calibur".

[@waysonasth2803]

It would feel totally at home in the hands of an epic souls game boss.

[@1337-Nathaniel]

@@youtubevoice1050 exactly where my mind went

[@TheBlackKnightmare]

as someone who has followed you all since the inception of Man at Arms. i am thoroughly impressed with this piece. it is truly a masterpiece of functional art.

[@ArthurB2023]

Welcome back Ilya.... we have missed you....

[@erevos217]

you sound like agent smith.

[@Sainty-0]

This kind of thing is far and away the best content on this channel. It may not get the views, but it's a league above the video game weapons imo.

[@paultapping9510]

100% The two trad. katana builds he did on Man at Arms were the first videos of his I saw and still some of my favourite weaponsmithing videos on the entire site

[@chrispritchard2331]

I want to see more from this channel. Not happy with just a beautiful 20 min video, I want to see the whole thing - every step as a whole. Even if the videos are an hour long each. Such great craftsmanship and artistic talent. Ilya is a national treasure!

[@ThatWorks]

We will be mixing in some much longer form videos once we get going at full speed once again

[@Ashenshugura]

​@@ThatWorksYou all do such amazing work. We all want to see more.

[@xXVintersorgXx]

​@@ThatWorksi know it's not great for the algorithm but I could literally watch full work days of him doing fine finish work like the engraving and gem setting or even the painting. ASMR type stuff for me. This video was quite a watch though. You got some really nice shots and it came together quite good with the narration

[@Deliriumend]

I want to see more projects like this. Ilya, Matt, or whomever. Show us your dream projects. The things that haunt you and challenge you to push your skills. This is an amazingly beautiful piece.

[@SerenityGene]

Ilya is the one who forged Soul Edge. 100%

[@jamesbeattie8800]

I believe that

[@AetheriusAri]

Correction. Ilya WILL BE the one to craft the True Soul Edge. He has not yet done so.

[@CameronQuinn-lm2hq]

@@SerenityGene yooo he kinda already did. From broken blades and everything

[@ramonpizarro]

It's nice to see Ilya back, and working on yet more beautiful art Much thanks to Matt and everyone else as well on this channel, equally important and underrated Thank you for your continued work, despite the incessant bitching and demanding that Ilya show up

[@Mike-ys5ho]

Ilya is a craftsman people would've gone to war for. He is truly an artist. What a piece!

[@davidelliott8324]

I'd love to see Ilya and Matt make an armor and weapon set. Even as a series. Fantastical and authentic and artistic and carte blanche on the specifics. Thanks guys!

[@ThatWorks]

Don't forget to like this video and to tell Ilya what you thought of his efforts and what would you like to see made next!

[@BaksA1]

I'd really like to see a death scythe. this unique shape to cut grass..with your imagination to create a true art, like in this video 😊

[@ZeroSeriesMMX]

I think I've stumbled on an archaeological museum exhibiting a blacksmith's unearthed memoirs about custom creations containing the crafter's soul... where I'd prefer to lock myself up for months-- oh wait, this is still good ole That Works. 🤩🍻

[@Isteak80]

It would be neat to see Ilya make more art pieces based on philosophical concepts as a series.

[@ThatWorks]

@@Isteak80 I mean, if it's a video on this channel...Good chance that it is just that!

[@zarathean8758]

Ilya is the main reason i got into blacksmithing (amongst others) im still not that good but i really appreciate anything hand forged

[@GarsonProduction]

I love watching Ilya work. It's something mesmerizing watching him bend the elements to his will in creating art like this. Well done everyone involved.

[@Cauin450]

Ilya, how long have you been working as an armorer-swordsman? You look in your early to mid 30s, but you sound like you're approaching your first millennium! Would you be one of the Highlander immortals trying to pull a fast one, by any chance?

[@TeaBurn]

"Iron is both death and life." ...sounds like something you guys should put on a tshirt for sale. I love that quote.

[@nickp3173]

It's so crazy that i've been watching you build swords for over 10 years on youtube. Absolutely amazing. So glad you guys made your own channel. God Bless!

[@Медвед-д5д]

Илья как всегда на не достижимой высоте! Просто мёд для глаз. Красавчик!

[@socketman]

I've been watching Ilya's work for years , and still, always impressed at what a craftsman and artisan this man is.

[@Nitehawke]

Gorgeous! I love videos of artists at work. The imagination involved in conception paired with the skill to make the concept a reality is inspiring. The history, material and process information Ilya adds is icing on the cake. Thanks for another great video and for bringing one more piece of beautiful artwork into the world.

[@ThatWorks]

Thank you for watching! A lot goes into these builds and making the videos of them being made

[@Nitehawke]

@ThatWorks and the work is appreciated! The crew does a great job filming and editing to highlight these projects in the best way possible. The curse of the one behind the camera is to become invisible while making everyone else look great. It's kind of a backhanded compliment to say "Great job! I felt so much a part of the video that I totally forgot you exist!" Lol

[@ThatWorks]

@@Nitehawke it's just me behind the camera and editing. No crew. -Matt

[@Nitehawke]

@ThatWorks well, you do a great job of pulling the viewer in.

[@mr_imagined]

Он офигенен, Илья! Очень красивая работа! Хаос, смешанный с упорядоченной структурой, тяжесть с лёгкостью пера! Очень круто

[@georadu85]

This, more of this! What Ilya made is an invaluable art piece and having him narate the idea and how it led to the creation of this sword is adding yet another dimension to this work of art.

[@angelocadena7094]

I agree, Ilya is an artist, not just a blacksmith. But his art will KEEL!

[@richardvanboxel1975]

Let this man cook, I would love to see nothing but this guy work

[@yanagihito1671]

Илья, какой же вы крутой! Обладать не только высочайшим уровнем навыков в работе со столькими материалами, но иметь к тому же фантазию, художественный вкус и видение, познания в культуре - по-моему это заслуживает восхищения и уважения!

[@gabrielbruce1977]

From the sketch alone I knew this was going to blow me away.

[@sstrelok88]

Илья, благодарю за возможность через данное видео прикоснуться к данному произведению искусства

[@connorpollock6087]

This puts me in mind of the blades from the series Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn. Its really good. Also your artwork and especially your silverwork are what drew me to this channel and MAA. I learned repousse and engraving from watching you.The fact that I am sanding garnets into gems at home while watching this has a lot to do with techniques your work inspired me to keep exploring.

[@ThinkAnotherStep]

These original products are your best builds by far - you do the "real life artifact weapon" style better than anyone on earth. More like this!

[@frbdnprds]

It's Grotesque and Gorgeous. Beautiful work!

[@CN-qh8pr]

Best video i've ever seen on smithing. To more Ilya original art pieces. Please boost this up guys.

[@josephmeier4663]

I think the reason that I enjoy this channel so much is that just like the original man at arms, these pieces are expertly crafted with care and vision using carefully selected materials and traditional techniques. At the end of a project this creates a work of art that embodies a vision and has a soul of its own. Other channels which mostly CNC/cut out parts and put them together create pieces which just lack any depth and end up looking lifeless. I will always come back more when the process is so expertly crafted like the blade in this video.

[@macch1avello]

This video is a masterclass in storytelling, craftsmanship, editing and freaking awesome swords! Great work

[@ThatWorks]

All of that means so much !!! Thank you.

[@nayrim1674]

Ilya's projects always blow my mind...

[@RocketMoanCreature]

These are my favorite videos, not coping any type of sword or other weapons. Things that you create yourself always come out so amazing.

[@rogerdubarry8505]

My favourite craftsman by far. You are also the biggest yarn spinner with your fantasy story-weaving dressed up as philosophy. Essentially you create a unique world of its own for these swords. It’s great.

[@NevermindThee]

This piece looks fundamentally primordial, like a gift from gods, brought forth at the cradle of creation. Most impressive. You've come a long way, Ilya.

[@Knotted-Crow]

people tend to trash modern/abstract art, but it is meant to challenge the notions and tastes of the viewer. Coming from an art school, harmony and beauty in abstraction can only shine when the artist is a technical master. I recognise a work of art when I see one. Incredible work as always !

[@SkaBonez]

Love seeing Ilya doing his thing back on the channel! Always enjoy seeing his blending of metalwork, art, and thought-like blending mind, body, and soul

[@abrashio]

Projects like these are always my favorite because it allows you to showcase the various talents you have acquired and developed over time to make a unique piece of your own design. The builds based on historic weapons and from various forms of fiction are still epic but something like this that spring forth from an abstract idea and vision you had is an entirely different level. Seeing it come to fruition is quite the delight for the eyes.

[@DrBF3000]

Ну, наконец то. Илья, пожалуйста не пропадай настолько надолго.

[@lCaptainCanaryl]

Ilya, i just wanna say i've been always excited to see your work, whether it was Forged in Fire, or back in the days with the brothers. I love your enthusiasm, your love for the craft, and i just wanna cheer you on a bit. thanks for being you.

[@paulmcbride584]

This was amazing, I would love to see your interpretation of "Grayswandir" from Chronicles of Amber by Roger Zelazny. Grayswandir is Corwin's sword, also known as the Night Blade. Grayswandir is inscribed with portions of the Pattern of Amber and was forged on the steps of Tir-na Nog'th; this makes it particularly effective against creatures of Chaos. Unlike a normal blade, Grayswandir can also harm apparitions, and allows Corwin to speak to the shades in Tir-na Nog'th. If you google the original books "Volume 1 and 2", there is a painting of Corwin on the road to Avalon fighting two Siamese Hell Cats which could inspire you potentially as the style and sweep of the blade is very distinctive. Thank you for your consideration.

[@tristankono8582]

Original projects are actually beautiful, do more of them!!!!

[@theresagoin5682]

Absolutely stunning. I could listen to you speak about the history and making and anything to do with metal and swords forever. Your knowledge and talent is amazing.

[@AnchorJG]

It's always fascinating to hear the thought processes behind an artist's choices while watching a chunk of metal get transformed into art.

[@Edgar6ooo]

I really like projects from both Matt and Ilya. But man the background that Ilya is able to give during the narration is incredible. I thought Ilya had left the channel and I'm really glad to see you back. More from Ilya please even if it's lower production projects. The flow of your work is like ASMR

[@saharkeydar9091]

Man, this piece is so beautiful, ilya is always a blacksmithing wonder to behold, and you always seem to evolve without losing the core of what makes these "your style", the ever present sharp and crisp hand engraving, the inclusion of as many materials and specifically, as many metals as possible in the piece, the reccuring themes of symbles of beauty like flowers, feathers light-rays and the such, this piece truely screams out ILYA HAS MADE THIS, and you as an artist kept inspiring me to try and find my own tiny signatures in my work and think about the piece im making as more than "just another knife" but an extention of my own imagination and world around me. I truely cant thank you and matt which i havent mentioned but has inspired me a lot as well enough, you guys are a blacksmith's aspiration.

[@VinceBoothe]

There will never be a sword made as beautiful as this.

[@-MCMLXXII-]

I've probably said this on one of your other videos, but I remember watching you on that 'other' channel and marveling at how it was basically being carried by you guys and your talents. Getting to watch you really show off now that you're out from under that has been wonderful.

[@bjornronaldson6017]

You have captured, in one piece, almost word for word, my entire philosophy on blade making. I may have to attempt to create a visual representation of that philosophy of my own now. Thank you for the inspiration and as always, truly beautiful work

[@MrGibbleGobs]

You really outdid yourself on this project. I've been following you on KZbin for a long time and I honestly think this is your best work. Would really love to see more original projects from you and Matt.

[@TehGimli]

It would be amazing to see Matt & Ilya take historic pieces and put their own artistic touches to them, similar to how Ilya did with this. I think it would be a fantastic series, and could be anything from a simple seax knife to a flamberge and anything between! I love the educational aspect that they put into their videos, as well as the distinct difference of their styles.

[@stevede666]

true craftsmanship from a true artist...wow

[@PLIJIM]

Oh my word... This is rhe single most beautiful sword I have ever seen and I feel lucky thar you shared it with us!

[@chloenelson3951]

This might have been the most beautiful thing I have ever laid eyes upon.

[@kazmoddan2058]

Stunning! It is truely a priviledge to watch you Ilya craft such beautiful "Art"! I'd love to see you craft a matching Sword and Dagger set!

[@mikemihalopoulos3645]

This is undoubtedly the most gorgeous sword I have ever laid my eyes on. The kris-style blade and the symbolism of the piece as a whole make this truly art. Also, love the Gogol Bordello shirt, saw them live in Boston a couple years ago, great performers.

[@IVathanMcNasty]

Craftsman, Artist, Scholar, and Gentleman, Glad to see Ilya still doing what he loves.

[@abyssiner7573]

This is nothing short of a masterpiece of fine art, i whould love to see more of your own weapon and armour designs, they are gorgeous!

[@sayaovongvang]

Looks amazing. Needs to be put in a game

[@danthiel8623]

The early form of soul caliber.

[@josienvos8999]

i love seeing ilya fully explain and show his artistic process! very inspiring, also for other lines of work!

[@webausay]

deeply glad you guys are making videos again. I love Ilya's lectures on art history!

[@pae5284]

Илья появился! С возвращением! Рад снова тебя видеть!

[@charlesgarber5911]

Wow!! Love when you & Matt do these passion project swords/weapons and to be honest, as a Catholic & student of philosophy, hearing you talk about the creation process & "transubstantiation" from the astronomical process of creation to the very things which give us life. Such an amazing video & I love this short sword!!

[@Isteak80]

Ilya creating the Soul Edge like it's no big deal.

[@kirbycvang]

these are the kind of projects that I love. Original abstract ideas that has no template, kind of just winging it and see what comes out.

[@mattmertens3967]

Saw your teaser , then saw a video on the art sword show and so wanted to see how you did everything. Historical or fantasy is fine I just want to see you push yourself because you are so talented.

[@Bjaz98]

I will never get tired of watching Ilya engrave make engravings

[@if5407]

I know there can't be wnough of these projects to satisfy me! Great art!

[@montlejohnbojangles8937]

It's always an honour to come along for each step of Ilya's journey as an artist. Fabulous stuff.

[@Harry-bc2dn]

I have such admiration for the process of your art, and appreciation for your willingness to share it with the wider community

[@munkey_banan]

Ilya is the best modern blacksmith, hands down

[@destructoau7526]

Ilya, this was a delight to watch. I take something away from all of your videos, so be it personal or historical its always awsome.

[@alexgillies4183]

I love the way Ilya translated his artistic vision into a cohesive work of art!

[@P3x310]

It's always fascinating to me as a person not terribly versed in artistic way of thinking, to watch an artist create not only a beautifully and skillfully made piece, but mainly a deeply thought-out one, that hides a true story and emotions in the way it was conceived. Thank you for taking me on a journey once again.

[@eliot6989]

Love when they do artist pieces, blades are such a good medium

[@stevehansonmakes]

This is my favourite video so far, rather than recreating a fantasy. Love it, keep it up and show us your creativity, I would love to see a bowie knife with this level of creativity in it, a classic knife shape with artistry built into it.

[@jondrud3742]

I'd LOVE to see more art projects. This was føckin' brilliant! Thank you. Also more historical builds and more old school blacksmithing.

[@gigaremo1]

I love watching Ilya work, he's not just making a sword he's making a work of art

[@trevortrampe1632]

Its always a treat to get to see an Original Ilya piece. Once again my god is it beautiful!

[@xsision5513]

Ilya has always been my favorite part of man at arms

[@ThePocketForge]

One of your most inspiring videos yet, absolutely stunning work! Not just the process, but the reasoning and monologue behind it 🙏

[@ThatWorks]

Thanks dude

[@Anceleron]

I have never had a piece of art make me feel anything, but this spoke to me, it hurts that ill never be able to own it or something like it, Im just glad to have seen it.

[@jeremiahkindel9301]

Love listening to Ilya narrate his process!

[@davidr7236]

This was just lovely to watch and appreciate. The artist's thinking was super interesting and it really felt like we were on the journey with a master craftsman who was making an artefact that would travel through the ages imbuing power to a few and causing many stories to unfold

[@zenmonk420]

You truly are a magnificent artist, I'm in awe of your skill every time I see your work.

[@RottieTheZombie]

More like this, please. The Heretic, Transubstantiation, they are both absolute masterworks.

[@jedtaylor3551]

The mastery of metal work in all facets is an inspirational effort on your behalf To live a life of consequence is a choice And the personal pursuit of excellence, holding yourself to standards unimaginable to most, rewards and drives the artistic ideal Thank you for your example

[@YaramazYumurta31]

Ilya is truly a master... There's nothing in this world I'd like to own more than one of his pieces! Someday!

[@NurkePL]

I always enjoyed watching Ilya work, its been too long since we have seen him :) Lets hope this fabulous piece of art heralds his return

[@adamyeoman6613]

Start to finish. Amazing. I love the beauty in the simplicity and the complicated of this piece. If you want a more beautiful world, and no one is creating it, it's your duty to find a way to add to the world in any way you can. Pieces like that, are an addition. Thank you

[@lesjohnson7183]

Love watching Ilya working, his creativity, anything out of the norm, is brilliant! Also enjoy his commentary, where else can you get a lesson in sword making, astrophysics, metallurgy, history, and metaphysics all at once? Keep up the amazing work 👍

[@Hey-Its-Tech]

Wow, what an amazing creation. Your work is truly amazing Ilya, looking forward to whatever you bring us next :)

[@xXVintersorgXx]

You are a true artist. Never stop creating. Also great direction and camera work on this.

[@perchristianaaslund6385]

The way you describe things. Mind blown by both your masterpiece and your storytelling. What a fantastic watch and listen this was. Thank you

[@JairoMelo]

This is Art in a sense I would never be able to describe with my limited vocabulary. Bewitching and mesmerizing!!!

[@Paddydapro]

Insanely beautiful masterwork again by Ilya, his show pieces are worth to wait all year long 😍