Bertie Rietveld
Introducing Bertie Rietveld, a renowned knife maker from the tranquil Magaliesburg in South Africa. Bertie’s journey into knifemaking began 42 years ago as a high school student, inspired by a custom knife he admired but couldn’t afford. Instead of settling for less, he created his own, marking the start of an illustrious career.
Initially focused on functional hunters, Bertie quickly transitioned to creating art knives and collectible daggers. Avoiding conventional inspirations, he draws from the world around him—super yachts, animal bones, and more—to infuse his designs with unique elegance. This unique approach ensures each piece is a work of art, rather than a mere copy.
Mentored by Piet Grey and influenced by the artistry of Wolfgang Loerchner, Bertie has developed a distinctive style that emphasizes creativity and originality. His refusal to take orders allows him to focus on crafting pieces that truly reflect his vision.
Bertie has showcased his one-of-a-kind creations at over 70 international shows, building connections with collectors and fellow makers worldwide. His knives are renowned for their exceptional quality, incorporating rare materials such as 40,000-year-old Mammoth Ivory, ancient Lapis Lazuli used to decorate mummies in Egypt some 4000 years ago, and even meteorites from otherworldly planets.
A hallmark of Bertie’s craftsmanship is his use of the Stanhope lens for marking his knives. This unique technique, which involves embedding the maker’s mark within a tiny lens, preserves the blade’s clean lines and enhances its elegance. It’s a rare and distinctive feature that sets his work apart.
Outside of knifemaking, Bertie indulges in high-precision air rifle shooting and competes in the BMW E36 racing series. These passions help him balance the intense focus required for his craft with exhilarating diversions.
Bertie Rietveld’s knives are not just tools but masterpieces of art, reflecting his relentless pursuit of perfection and creativity.