Maki-e, the Japanese Art of Lacquering

Minimalist art

Maki-e, the Japanese art of lacquering, dates back to the Heian period (794–1185) and has become the epitome of the finest Japanese art over the centuries. Translated literally, Maki-e means "sprinkled picture", because tiny gold particles are sprinkled onto the surface. During the creation process the rare Japanese lacquer Urushi is applied in many layers, and then polished several times.

A variety of special techniques result in individual designs: In the Togidashi Maki-e technique, for example, a motif is applied to the surface with colour varnish and then over-lacquered several times.

In the Taka Maki-e technique, on the other hand, charcoal or gold powder is mixed with the lacquer, so that the motif is offset from the surface in a gentle dome shape.

In 2002 Pelikan developed the first Maki-e fountain pen based on the Souverän series. Small series which were woven around Japanese mythologies were created in collaboration with selected Maki-e artists. Each artist signs their name on the Maki-e writing instruments which they create.

To date, Pelikan has launched eleven premium Maki-e editions, each of which has its own story: Sea World, Four Leaf Clover, Heavenly Maidens of Dunhuang, Renjishi, Dragon and Phoenix, Maiko in Kyoto, Fireworks, Cherry Blossom & Autumn Leaves, Karajishi, Mubyo & Takara-zukushi and Genji. As most editions have been limited to 88 writing instruments worldwide, many have already sold out.

Each writing instrument in the Maki-e series has an 18-carat gold nib in size M. The prices of these exquisite fountain pens vary from 2800 € to 8000 € per piece, and each fountain pen is presented in traditional Japanese gift packaging made from Paulownia wood. The basis for the Maki-e writing instruments is the legendary Pelikan Souverän 1000 fountain pen, the piston fountain pen with the largest ink capacity in the world.

The Maki-e series from Pelikan combines traditional German manufacturing expertise with the famous Japanese Maki-e technique –both arts, which have been perfected over decades of experience. The result is a handcrafted product whose value far exceeds the sum of its parts. Anyone who has held a Maki-E fountain pen in their hand knows the special appeal of these writing instruments.

You can find further information on Pelikan premium products at www.pelikan.com/exklusive.