Namiki Emperor Chinkin Peony fountain pen

The charm in person for this traditional theme of Japanese art. Richness of colours, subtlety of fragrance, delicacy of its petals, peony is considered in Japan as the queen of flowers.

Meaning of the design
Imported from China around 700, the peony, prized for its medicinal virtues, acquired in Japan grace and finesse. It is appreciated for its beauty as well as its numerous and various symbolic virtues. According to legend it was the only flower to resist Empress Wu Zetian's injunction to bloom in winter and thus represents independence. In China it is the emblem of abundance and social success but also embodies love. Represented by three, they are the symbol of spring.

Techniques used
Only the delicate technique of Chinkin which requires a mastery of gesture and exceptional mental strength could illustrate the delicacy of the peony. This technique consists in engraving patterns in Urushi lacquer by using special cutting chisels and a precious metal sheet, and then embedding powder therein. The difficulty of this technique, accentuated on the curved surfaces like those of the pens, comes from the necessary continuity of the gesture which cannot be stopped. As soon as the work begins, the cutting can no longer be corrected. No errors are allowed to the lacquer artists who possess this know-how.

Artist: Yasuji Fumi
Model: Emperor
Introduction year: 2009

If the pen is not in stock, the leadtime can vary from a week to several months.