Karel probably picked up a hammer long before, but the most important moment was likely when he began learning the craft – almost 50 years ago. Since then, they haven’t missed a beat. And that’s a good thing. They worked together for a long time, but something was missing. It was a place where Karel could be his own master and create according to his own vision. That’s when he got his own forge.
Starting your own workshop is never easy, and his beginnings were no exception. But through determination, perseverance, and skillful hands, he gradually became a renowned blacksmith. By the year 2000, the Czech Republic had become too small for him – his work was gaining attention abroad. Collaborations with German architects and commissions on historic buildings brought his pieces increasing recognition.
Later, his son Marek joined the craft, and together they began taking the forge to a new level. Marek brought a modern perspective and opened the door to digital presentation and custom-made commissions. Their collaboration merges tradition with innovation, allowing them to offer much more than before. Together, they even created our best-selling hand-forged shoehorn.
The two of them make a great team and have no plans to slow down. If you want to see what they’ve forged for you, check out Kovallo.
