Pelikan’s latest addition to its prestigious Maki-e collection is the “Ivy and Komon”, a pen that carries on the tradition and craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. Following the celebrated Maki-e Dragon from last year, this new edition draws inspiration from Japanese culture, encapsulating the essence of autumn in a beautifully illustrated lacquer painting. What I appreciate about these editions is that you can never predict what the brand will launch next, but it never fails to impress.
Inspiration
The design of the Pelikan Maki-e Ivy and Komon is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition and nature’s beauty. The evergreen ivy, often celebrated in Japanese poetry for its glossy and striking autumn leaves, is the central motif in this pen’s design. Historically, ivy has been used as a decorative element, adorning the exterior walls of buildings with its lush foliage. This imagery is vividly captured on the fountain pen, with brilliant orange ivy leaves symbolizing the vibrant hues of autumn.
Complementing the ivy is the traditional Japanese komon pattern. Komon, a classic kimono design, involves a repeated motif dyed in the same direction, creating a mesmerizing and intricate pattern. The combination of the lively ivy and the meticulous komon pattern on the pen’s barrel and cap creates a wonderful visual narrative of autumn’s beauty.
To breathe life into this edition Pelikan turned to Japanese artisans, renowned for their skill in the ancient Japanese lacquer painting technique. This pen celebrates this revered art form in its most exquisite manifestation.
The Art of Maki-e in ‘Ivy and Komon’
At the heart of this masterpiece is Urushi, a rare and precious Japanese lacquer. The process begins with the careful application of Urushi in multiple, meticulously polished layers. This painstaking procedure ensures a deep, lustrous finish that forms the perfect canvas for the intricate designs to follow.
Once the base is prepared, the artist moves to the Togidashi-Maki-e technique. In this method, colored lacquer is delicately painted onto the surface. After the design is applied, the lacquer is polished down to reveal the vibrant artwork beneath. This method requires immense skill and precision, as the artist must balance the layers to achieve both clarity and depth in the imagery.
Adding Dimension: Taka-Maki-e
In addition to the flat, polished designs of Togidashi-Maki-e, the artist uses Taka-Maki-e to bring a tactile dimension to the pen. This technique involves mixing charcoal and gold powder into the lacquer, which is then applied to the surface. As a result, the patterns are raised, creating a three-dimensional effect. Running your thumb over the pen, you can feel the intricate patterns, adding an element of sensory delight to the visual beauty, and this is what I’ve always appreciated about Maki-e.
A Harmonious Blend of Techniques
For the “Ivy and Komon” model, the Maki-e artist has harmoniously blended both Togidashi-Maki-e and Taka-Maki-e techniques. The result is a pen that is not only visually stunning but also rich in texture. The interplay of the smooth, polished designs with the raised, tactile patterns creates a dynamic and engaging work of art. The brilliant orange ivy, depicted with a vibrant richness, and the traditional komon patterns, rendered with delicate precision, come together in a design that celebrates the essence of Japanese autumn. The use of these advanced Maki-e techniques ensures that each pen is a unique, multi-sensory experience, combining visual splendor with a tactile allure.
As any in the Pelikan Maki-e series, the ‘Ivy and Komon’ edition is a highly exclusive piece, with only 123 pens available worldwide. This is sure to stir up a race among avid Maki-e collectors, and the battle will be a close one. Another aspect I like about this pen is that, like a famous painting, each pen is individually signed by the artist, ensuring its uniqueness and authenticity. The pen features a finely crafted 18-carat gold nib available in size M. This combination of precious materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures a writing experience that is both luxurious and smooth.
I don’t know about you but everytime Pelikan launches a Maki-e edition I get over-excited because I know the level of artistry their putting in. To truly understand its beauty, you have to see it live. The new Maki-e model continues the tradition and will probably melt the hearts of many pen enthusiasts. As a fact, I already know a few collectors who will be adding this edition to their collections. The new ‘Ivy and Komon’ will be available from mid-June priced below €5,000.00.