Newest Acquisitions (Virtual "Show & Tell") ~ part 23

From the modern aesthetic of the Lamy 'Safari' to the timeless beauty of the Pilot-Namiki Maki-e fountain pen owned by Armando...

(all photos courtesy of Armando ~ please click on images to enlarge)

Armando: "Recently, I received a fountain pen that I have ordered in early March. I was so excited to open the box, since this pen is quite different from my other pens in terms of the finish. It was a suspenseful unboxing, and I was so happy with what I saw and held for the first time. I'd like to share with the club the photos, and my experience and impression of the fountain pen."

Fountain Pen: Pilot Namiki Maki-e Flowers of Plum Tree
Finish: Urushi Lacquer, Maki-e Technique
Design: Plum Tree and Flowers
Nib: 14 K Gold
Size: Medium

"The first thing that struck me when I first saw and held the pen was its graceful design. My fingers felt the flowers and the branches that were designed in the cap and barrel, due to the numerous layers of urushi and other materials applied to it. The barrel and cap were so smooth to the touch, and I couldn't help but admire it. It certainly grabbed my attention. After dipping it in ink and using it, the writing experience was so smooth and pleasant. The pen is well proportioned and balanced."

"The symmetry of the floral design and the branches is so elegant that there appears to be harmony in the arrangement of the parts in size, color, and form."

"In conclusion, let me borrow a phrase from George Santayana:

"The pen stops from being a functional object, and at least, temporarily, becomes an object that we simply hold and admire."

Many thanks to Armando for sharing this very special new acquisition with us!