Hira Maki-e
A hybrid worldview
There are many masterpieces in the history of Japanese art, and learning about the stories behind each work will deepen your interest. In an effort to share these layered stories with the rest of the world, Wancher is unveiling the Hira Maki-e collection, which is a highly specialized technique that combines traditional ink painting and detailed Urushi craftwork.
History of Japanese painting
The specific ink painting style that inspired this collection originated in China before being introduced to Japan in the late 12th Century by traveling zen monks. While Japan had their own ink-based art prior to this, it was considered juvenile in comparison to the much more detailed and complex artwork hailing from China. This sparked an evolution in Japanese art, forming the foundation of what would be a golden period in Japan's art history.
Taka Maki-e
Origins of Treasured Technique of Taka maki-e
The birth of maki-e technology in Japan is traced back to the Shosoin treasure of the Nara period (A.C. 710-794). It stands as a hallmark technique of lacquer art that developed uniquely in Japan. Maki-e technique flourished during the Kamakura period and underwent refinement during the competitive atmosphere of the Muromachi period.
Among the various styles of maki-e, Takamaki-e demands the most intricate skills.
In this instance, Wancher has crafted a piece with profound affection, employing the "Takamaki-e" technique to present the epitome of beauty inherent in this rare Japanese craftsmanship.
Taka Maki-e Technique
True to the original words, "Taka" which means "Raised high". There are several other technique for making Taka Maki-e such as "Urushi-age", "Sumiko-age" by using charcoal, and "Sabi-age" which uses gold powder generously while also very laborous. As a result, these Taka Maki-e fountain pens are made to be with three-dimensional with many delicate details. Only when you touch it with hand, you can feel the true beauty, a wonderful masterpiece.
18K Nib
All pens come with an 18K gold nib to enhance your writing experience and the astonishing appearance of the traditional Maki-e art on this pen.
Natural Raw Urushi
Our fountain pens are applied using natural Urushi which by characteristic has slightly less shine. Every early summer, raw Urushi is gathered from the deciduous tree known as "Urushinoki". This valuable plant yields only about 100-300 grams of raw Urushi liquid per year from each tree.
Specification
Base: Ebonite
Art: Hira Maki-e, Taka Maki-e
Filling mechanism: Converter or Cartridge (European International Standard)
Nib: #6 Wancher 18K gold
Feed: Plastic only
