The most coveted collection in Pelikan’s portfolio—and among collectors alike—has been enriched with a new addition: the Pelikan Maki-e Goldfish. Once again, Pelikan turns to the aquatic world for inspiration. At first glance, many might associate it with the Koi edition launched in 2015. However, despite both the koi carp and goldfish belonging to the carp family, the two editions bear no resemblance. Let’s dive in and explore what inspired Pelikan’s choice for 2025.
Every time Pelikan releases a new Maki-e, collectors go wild, and honestly, I get it. These editions have become a yearly highlight for enthusiasts worldwide. Just scroll through Reddit or pen forums, and you’ll see the excitement building every time a new one is on the horizon.
The Edition
This year’s edition highlights the goldfish (金魚), a cherished Japanese symbol associated with prosperity and good fortune, brought to life on only 123 pens created worldwide. To some, it may appear as just another release, but for Pelikan is another occasion to honor and preserve the ancient Maki-e Art kept alive only by a handful of talented craftsmen.
Unlike other editions that are heavily decorated, this one stands out for its simplicity, and perhaps that’s its greatest strength. Rather than opting for a more elaborate design, Pelikan and the artist chose to keep things understated: two goldfish in perfect balance, with a vivid red on the cap and a soft white on the barrel. The result is a sense of harmony that doesn’t overwhelm the eye. With nothing to distract, the focus falls entirely on the craftsmanship.
“Each goldfish is meticulously hand-painted, its flowing tails and shimmering scales brought to life with subtle touches of gold. Surrounding them, gently swaying hornwort and rippling waves evoke the serene beauty of a tranquil pond,” notes Pelikan about the collection.
The beauty of this edition, of course, extends well beyond what meets the eye, though I suspect that’s where most people stop. What’s particularly unique about the Togidashi-Taka Maki-e technique is the raised textures beneath the polished lacquer finish, which make the entire edition even more enjoyable, at least if you care about the tactile experience as much as I do.
The “Goldfish” is built on Pelikan’s iconic M1000 chassis and fitted with a piston-filling mechanism and an 18-carat gold nib, finished with rhodium. Individually signed by the Maki-e artist as a testament to its authenticity and the tradition it carries forward, each piece is presented in a traditional Paulownia wood box.
Perhaps I’m being overly sentimental now, but I’ve always believed in looking beyond the object itself, and Maki-e is a perfect example. This centuries-old craft now stands on the brink of obscurity, with fewer and fewer artisans carrying its legacy. That’s why it feels all the more precious today. It might be that in the future, we’ll look back with a sense of nostalgia for what has quietly faded away.
Whether this is your first Maki-e pen or one of many, consider it more than a purchase: it’s a small yet meaningful contribution to the preservation of this time-honored craft.
The Maki-e Goldfish is available in a limited edition of just 123 pieces worldwide. For more information, contact your local authorised retailer or visit Pelikan’s official website.
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