Kuretake Kindai Maki-e - Aka Fuji (Brush & Felt Pen Set)

Wancher x Kuretake

This new limited edition pen made in collaboration with Kuretake features iconic imagery from Japan's rich culture from the silhouette of Mt. Fuji at sunset to the cherry blossoms using the traditional craft of Maki-e onto the pen's golden body. Just as a samurai would be lost without his blade, this pen needed a tip to match its elegance and uniqueness, which is why it comes with both a Brush tip and a Felt Tip.  

By packaging two different tips for one pen, the limitations of your artistry can finally be unlocked, and you will be able to write and draw in every possible way you desire. 

Kindai Maki-e and Ukiyo-e

Technique Inspiration

Ukiyo-e is a traditional Japanese painting style that is published using silkscreen printing techniques, similar to Kindai Maki-e. Ukiyo-e involves ink-printing through stencils onto media such as woodblock and paper screens. The art of adhering the picture, to the surface is what makes Kindai Maki-e and Ukiyo-e are comparable. In 1860, this Japanese printmaking technique actually influenced the world-renowned impressionist painter, Van Gogh.

Pen Design

The design is inspired in part by the Japanese 17th century painting style known as Rimpa, which has influenced many artwork to date. It incorporates natural elements such as flowers, trees, mountains, and animals, which are also common in Japanese traditional paintings.

Aka Fuji

"Aka Fuji" (Red Fuji) is a famous woodblock print by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai, who is best known for his iconic work "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." The print depicts Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, with a red sunrise in the background. Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan and has long been revered by the Japanese people for its beauty and spiritual significance.

In the print "Aka Fuji," Hokusai used vibrant red tones to depict the sunrise over Mount Fuji, creating a striking and dramatic image. The print is considered one of Hokusai's masterpieces and is known for its bold use of color and dynamic composition. The cultural significance of "Aka Fuji" lies in its depiction of Mount Fuji, which is a symbol of Japan's natural beauty and cultural identity. The print is also a testament to Hokusai's skill as an artist and his ability to capture the majesty of Japan's natural landscape.

The Monogatari Fountain Pen

The Making Process

The pen has a surprisingly thin and light body without compromising its durability. With a jointless body, the charm of Maki-e drawings is fully extended. To make the shape of the body, the craftsmen have to utilize a single aluminum sheet to forge it downward until it reaches the shape of a pen. To achieve a light but long-lasting pen, such painstaking technique necessitates both delicacy and strength.

The body and cap are made by squeezing the metal during the molding process, which requires arduous labor. As for the body, the beauty of modern Maki-e is reflected in its own story to tell.

Shape

The bullet-shaped Maki-e fountain pen, smooth and moderately sized, is compact, will fit comfortably in your hand, and is perfect for daily use.

Specifications

Material: Aluminum

Method: Press drawing molding

Making technique: Kindai maki-e

Pen Size: diameter 11 x 137 mm

Ink-filling system: Proprietary Cartridge　

Country of Origin: Japan

Nib Material: Stainless steel iridium point

Nib size: F, M　

*All parts are assembled in Japan

Packaging

Wooden box, Cartridge, Converter