Forge de Laguiole and Christian Ghion are awarded by the French Institute of Design

The “Essentiel” laguiole knife awarded

The title ‘Janus of Heritage and Innovation’ was awarded to Forge de Laguiole for its ‘L’Essentiel’ pocket knife designed by Christian Ghion

Sponsored by the Minister for Industrial Renewal, the Janus prize is awarded annually to celebrate outstanding contribution to the area of design.  The 2014 Janus of Heritage and Innovation has been awarded to Forge the Laguiole for its ‘L’Essential’ pocket knife designed by Christian Ghion.

The continuity of the traditional knowledge of the (Aubrac) area as well as the modern reinterpretation of the knife has gotten the full support of the jury of experts. This jury consists of professionals in marketing, design, communication and commerce. Thierry Moysset, Forge de Laguiole’s manager explains that this is an award that honors Forge de Laguiole’s commitment to the values of heritage and authentic traditional skill.

L’ESSENTIEL, a laguiole knife made from carbone fiber

Inspired by the shape of dancer Isadora Duncan’s legs, Christian Ghion (link to biography on the website) creates L’Essentiel (link to the catalogue) with a focus on simplicity. Due to its clean design, the blade, rather than the handle, is the central point of the knife. A stylized bee, one of Laguiole’s customary symbols, enhances the blade.

This ‘Janus’ is also a well deserved reward for the designer who created his first and very successful Forge de Laguiole knife in 2008. One year later, four knife collections were born. His latest creation for FORGE DE LAGUIOLE reflects the creator, it is simultaneously delicate and dominant.