Master Jianfen Cheng
Jianfen Cheng: A Trailblazing Female Swordsmith
Born in October 1966 in Longquan, Zhejiang, Jianfen Cheng has been a prominent figure in the traditional art of sword forging. Her journey began in January 1984 at the Longquan Ou Yezi Sword Factory, where she honed her skills as an apprentice.
Mastery and Recognition
Senior Arts and Crafts Artist: A testament to her expertise in the field.
Lishui City Master of Arts and Crafts: Recognized for her exceptional contributions to the craft.
Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritor: As a representative of the “Longquan Sword Forging Skills,” she upholds the legacy of this ancient technique.
From Apprentice to Innovator
Jianfen Cheng’s career began in the hallowed halls of the Longquan Sword Factory, where she served her apprenticeship and honed her skills in copper wrapping techniques from 1987 to 1996. Her exceptional talent and dedication earned her numerous awards and commendations, setting the stage for her future achievements.
The Forge of Independence
In 1997, Jianfen Cheng embarked on a new chapter by founding Cheng’s Sword Factory. This entrepreneurial venture not only marked a significant milestone in her personal journey but also showcased her unwavering commitment to the craft and her innovative spirit.
A Pioneer Among Masters
As the only female master in the Longquan sword industry recognized by Lishui City, Jianfen Cheng holds a unique position in the world of sword forging. Her expertise in copper wrapping, sword decoration design, and management has not only earned her a provincial master title but also serves as an inspiration to women in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her legacy is a testament to her perseverance and excellence, shaping the future of swordcraft for generations to come.
– **2009**: “Yue Wang Sword” received the Silver Award at the inaugural China Zhejiang Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, showcasing her early recognition in the field.
– **2010**: “Court Ritual Sword” was honored with the Silver Award at the 2nd China Zhejiang Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, highlighting her growing reputation.
– **2011**: Achieved multiple Gold Awards for “Ancient Yue Han Sword,” “Dongdiao Sword,” and “Iron-Clad Eight-Sided Han Sword” at the Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, marking a milestone in her career.
– **2012**: “Dragon Roar Sword” and “Spring and Autumn Ancient Sword” each won the Top Prize at the Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, further solidifying her standing in the industry.
– **2012**: “Ruyi Sword” was also awarded the Top Prize at the same event, demonstrating her consistent excellence.
– **2013**: “Ancient Yuan Han Sword” earned the Gold Award at the Shanghai International Gifts & Crafts Creative Design Expo, showcasing her work on an international stage.
– **2013**: “Cloud Dragon Sword” won the Gold Award at the 3rd China Zhejiang Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, continuing her streak of top honors.
– **2013**: “Xiao Yao Sword” and “Luxurious Tang Knife” each received the Silver Award at the 27th China Beijing International Gifts & Crafts Expo, adding to her collection of accolades.
– **2014**: “Eight-Sided Han Sword” won the Gold Award at the Shanghai International Gifts & Crafts Creative Design Expo, reinforcing her mastery of the craft.
– **2014**: “Ruyi Sword” received the “Zhongxin Cup” Gold Award at the 4th China Zhejiang Arts and Crafts Masterpieces Expo, a testament to her innovative designs.
– **2014**: “Dongdiao Sword” was awarded the “Zhongxin Cup” Silver Award at the same expo, demonstrating her versatility.
– **2015**: “Golden Star Ruyi Sword” won the Silver Award at the China (Hangzhou) Ouyi Legacy Longquan Sword Exhibition, continuing her legacy of innovation and excellence.
– **2015**: Recognized as a representative inheritor of the “Longquan Sword Forging Skills,” an Intangible Cultural Heritage, by Longquan City, a crowning achievement in her career.
Her works have also been collected by prestigious institutions:
– **2011**: “Court Ritual Sword” and “Hollow-out Golden Dragon Sword” were permanently collected by the Longquan Sword Museum.
– **2012**: “Ruyi Sword” was acquired by the China National Arts and Crafts Museum.
– **2013**: “Engraved Cane Sword” was collected by the Beijing Art Museum.
– **2014**: “Eight Dragon Tang Knife” was added to the collection of the Lishui City Museum.
– **2015**: “Dragon Roar Sword” was collected by the Hangzhou Arts and Crafts Museum.
