Kuretake Kindai Maki-e - Ryuu to Houju

Wancher x Kuretake

Together with Kuretake, we are determined to bring you the artwork of Kindai Maki-e in 18 designs that represents Japanese symbols, culture, and folklore.

To complete the fine artwork of artisans from Kuretake, we attach the nibs and clip as part of expressing our passion and stories in these fountain pens. With the utmost sincerity, we present you the traditional Japanese design and technology of the Maki-e Monogatari fountain pen for your own use or as a gift for someone else.

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.

For the final touch, the design is coated with clear urushi to add extra protection for the gorgeous design.

Ryuu To Houju

In Japanese culture, the dragon, or Ryuu, is a powerful and revered mythical creature. It is often depicted as a large, serpentine creature with wings, scales, and claws, and is associated with wisdom, strength, and nobility.

In Japanese art and literature, dragons are often depicted as wise and noble creatures with great power and magical abilities. They are often associated with water and are thought to bring good luck and prosperity.

In the art of Japanese fountain pens, dragons are often depicted as decorative elements. They may be carved into the pen's body or depicted through the use of makie, a type of Japanese lacquerware that involves decorating a surface with gold or silver foil and colorful pigments. The incorporation of dragons in Japanese fountain pens is a way to bring a touch of traditional Japanese culture and aesthetics to a practical everyday object. 

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. The nib size is available in Fine and Medium, also compatible with Kuretake's fountain pen nibs.

Specifications

Material: Aluminum

Method: Press drawing molding

Art technique: Kindai maki-e

Pen Size: diameter 11 x 137 mm

Ink-filling system:  Cartridge, and Converter (European size)　

Country of Origin: Japan

Nib Material: Stainless steel iridium point (gold-plated)

Nib size: F, M, SHARA-Q (Fude-shaped tip)

*All parts are assembled in Japan

Packaging

Wooden box, Cartridge (3 pcs), Converter