I found this set of knives on the internet today, which are made by a French company, Fontenille Pataud. They look absolutely beautiful, and I love the packaging that shows from what area of France the knives originate along with a sketch of each knife. Yes, the set is rather expensive at about $370, but I am sure it would last a lifetime.
The handles also come in acrylic ‘ivory’, ebony and olive wood. The same company also produces fine Laguiole knives that are unbelievably beautiful but shockingly expensive. You can browse the knives here.
For a cheaper option, I have seen referenced a few times in the cooking forums this peasant chef’s knife from Lee Valley Tools. The manufacturer replicated a versatile knife that would have been in many French homes 100 years ago. The result is a beautiful, utilitarian piece of cutlery and it only costs $27.50. The blade is carbon steel, which will allow it to have a finer edge, but the metal will tarnish over time so care instructions are provided.
