Namiki is releasing two new maki-e fountain pens this November. One will use the Emperor as the base, the other will be the smaller Yukari Royale. The Emperor is a large pen measuring 6.8″ capped, the barrel diameter is 11/16″ while the cap diameter is 13/16″. If you think a Montblanc 149 is too small, then this is the pen for you. The Yukari Royale is a more modest 5.8″ in length and only a half inch barrel diameter, very similar to a 149.
EMPEROR Collection – Kylin
A kylin is a mythical suspicious beast, once revered in ancient China. The kylin’s form is part deer, part dragon, part ox, part horse and part fish, and it was said to appear before virtuous rulers. In Japan, it was also revered as one of the four sacred beasts, alongside the phoenix, the dragon and the turtle. A symbol of good fortune, peace and prosperity, it is seen in the design of swords and their metalwork adornments.
The Kiritake (paulownia & bamboo) motif is a symbol of good fortune and noble gentility. The kylin and Kiritake are depicted with a striking and majestic finish, by using Taka Maki-e technique.
YUKARI ROYALE Collection – PARROT with PEACH
In China, peach is known not only as a popular fruit, but also as the “hermit’s fruit”. And in ages past it was believed to purify, and promote perpetual youth and longevity. In Japan, peach is believed to have purifying powers as in China. Even today, on the 3rd of March each year, ceremonies are held to ask for the divine protection of the peach to ensure the health and well-being of baby girls. Birds are a good omen, thought to carry good fortune with them. From ancient times parrots have been used in kimono designs to symbolize good luck. The plump, soft shape of peach and the vivid colors of the parrot’s wings give the pen a exuberant richness by using Taka Maki-e technique.
No pricing information has been released, but based on past offerings of the Emperor pens, you can expect these to be listed anywhere from $6000 to $15,000. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the KYLIN came in around $10,000.
