Inspired by Shakkyo, one of the most celebrated plays of Noh, this fountain pen captures the spiritual intensity and refined beauty of traditional Japanese performing arts. Set against the legendary Stone Bridge of Qingliang Mountain, the story unfolds through the powerful presence of the lion spirit, a symbol of strength and divine protection. Peony blossoms, long associated with nobility and grace, are delicately woven into the narrative, echoing the harmony between nature and the sacred that defines Japanese aesthetics.
At the heart of Shakkyo lies the lion’s wild and mesmerizing dance, a breathtaking display demanding extraordinary technical mastery. The elaborate masks and sumptuous costumes, shaped by centuries of Buddhist influence, reflect a culture deeply connected to ritual, symbolism, and reverence for the natural world. Every element speaks of balance: movement and stillness, power and restraint, spirit and form.
Each piece is decorated and meticulously brought to life with urushi lacquerware techniques, combining the traditional urushi techniques of Maki-E and Raden. The deep black ebonite barrel is enhanced with mother-of-pearl and abalone shell raden, creating a shimmering with the gold sprinkles contrasting. The result is a fountain pen that feels both artistic and timeless - a delicate piece of functional art unfolding in front of its owner. A treat reserved for the very few - King of Pens Shakkyo is a limited edition of only 38 pieces world wide.
The presentation is completed by an exquisite gift box crafted using Hakone marquetry, a traditional woodworking technique developed during the Edo period. Created by meticulously assembling different types of natural wood into intricate geometric patterns, the box itself is a work of art, a tribute to Japanese craftsmanship and a timeless expression of heritage.
