Yakumo-nuri Chijimi - Aodaisho Fountain Pen

This pen comes with the 18K Shogun Nib. 

The Aodaisho - Japanese Rat Snake

As early as Japan's Jomon Period (14,000 - 300 BC), From as early as the Jomon period, the snake has held a lasting presence in Japanese culture, often associated with protection, renewal, and the quiet balance between nature and daily life. Drawing from this enduring symbolism, Master Artisan Nagaya Momoko developed a design that reflects both the form and spirit of the serpent. Rather than a literal interpretation, the expression is conveyed through material and surface.

Aodaisho (青大将): The Japanese Rat Snake (Aidasho) has been cherished as a guardian spirit of farmers and country houses because, like the White Snake which is a type of Aidasho, it preys upon the vermin that would affect the livelihood of a Japanese farmer.Its presence is traditionally seen as a sign of protection, offering reassurance rather than fear.

 Recognized for its soft green tones that may deepen or shift over time, the Aidashō reflects a natural sense of change and continuity, just like the Chijimi-nuri Aidasho Fountain Pen will continue to change and mature while in your collection. Aidashō embodies a calm sense of protection, with a beauty that continues to evolve over time.

The Design - Chijimi

Chijimi-nuri, which loosely translates to Shrinkage Lacquer, involves a specific type of Urushi which will literally shrink as it dries and matures, resulting in a unique texture that cannot be replicated by any other means. 

To achieve this, Master Artisan Nagaya Momoko coats the ebonite base with two coatings of Urushi before adding a layer of the special Chijimi (shrinking) Urushi. As the Urushi is left to dry in a controlled environment, deep lines and whorls across the surface of the fountain pen will be formed. This creates a texture akin to the grooves of an oak tree's bark, and just like a tree, the pattern will always be random, and impossible to replicate from one pen to another. 

The Artisan: Nagaya Momoko

Born in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, Nagaya Momoko graduated from the illustrious Kanagawa College of Art before opening her own studio in the city of Izumo. 

With the aim of preserving and developing the local traditional craft of Yakumo-nuri, she works on creating artworks that masterfully meld modern innovations with traditional Yakumo-nuri.

When we learned of Nagaya Momoko’s personal philosophy, it was clear that it aligned with our own commitment to preserving traditional arts, which is why we hope our collaboration will be the beginning of more artworks that can raise awareness of these underrated techniques. 

Specifications

Base material: Ebonite

Art: Yakumo-nuri, Chijimi (shrinkage Urushi technique)

Filling mechanism: Converter or Cartridge (Sailor Standard)

Nib: 18K Solid Gold Shogun (Available in Rhodium-plated Form, as well)

Feed: Plastic

Compact air-tight cap: Prevents ink from drying prematurely

Packaging

Traditional Japanese Wooden Box + Pen Kimono + Instructional Materials + Converter + Cartridge