This is an original unfinished rough ground knife blade blank by Seizo Imai in Seki, Japan circa early 2000s. This blade has been heat treated/hardened. It is made of ATS-34 and is hollow ground. Overall length is 5" and the blade is 2.25" long. Small and would make a good neck knife. Blade can be shaped and buffed according to your taste. Last picture shows a similar damascus blade as completed by Imai (not included, for example only). During the latter part of his life, Imai focused on creating stunning Loveless style knives, and also sold them as knifemaking kits. This blade is the last you will find in this style from this master knifemaker. Seizo Imai was one of Seki, Japan's finest craftsmen and most famous knifemakers of the modern era. His collaboration with Parker spanned nearly two decades. He also made knives for Frost, Browning, Explorer, Compass, Condor, and many others, including his own brands Imax and Seizo Imai. His custom Loveless style knives are works of art. After his passing, several vintage old stock models were found at his warehouse. This is one of these rare finds. It is unmarked since he would engrave his name on the blade after finishing as seen in our other listings of his custom knives.