on salePelikan M1000 Maki-e Fountain Pen - Goldfish (Limited Edition)

Maki-e is the timeless and intricate Japanese art of lacquer painting, admired for its elegance and masterful craftsmanship. In this technique, detailed motifs are hand-painted onto lacquered surfaces before being sprinkled with fine powders of gold, silver, or platinum to give the artwork its unique brilliance.

The Pelikan “Goldfish” fountain pen showcases two refined Maki-e techniques: Togidashi-Taka-Maki-e, which combines the raised textures of Taka-Maki-e with the polished, smooth finish of Togidashi-Maki-e. This dual technique highlights the depth and sophistication of Japanese lacquer artistry. Each individually produced piece is crafted by hand and is truly unique.

Originating from China, the goldfish traces its lineage to a red Crucian carp discovered in the Yangtze River during the 3rd or 4th century. Over time, these ornamental fish were bred in royal courts and temples, evolving into the graceful and vibrant goldfish recognized today, distinguished by their flowing split tails and vivid hues.

In Japanese culture, goldfish (金魚) are revered as symbols of prosperity, good fortune, and elegance. Their name is thought to derive from “Chin-yui,” meaning “fish of wealth,” and they have appeared in Maki-e artwork for centuries as emblems of vitality and abundance.

The Pelikan “Goldfish” Maki-e fountain pen presents a graceful and symbolic scene: a vivid red goldfish is depicted on the cap, while a white goldfish with delicate detailing adorns the barrel. Each fish is intricately painted, their scales and flowing tails highlighted with subtle touches of gold to accentuate their movement and liveliness.

Surrounding the goldfish are water-themed elements such as gently swaying seaweed and rippling waves, adding depth and serenity to the composition. These decorative elements, brought to life with shimmering lacquer and fine powder, evoke the calm beauty of a tranquil pond.

Uniting the centuries-old Maki-e tradition with Pelikan’s renowned German engineering, this masterpiece is crafted on the iconic M1000 Souverän® model. It is fitted with an 18-carat gold nib, elegantly decorated with rhodium, in nib size Medium. Each piece is individually signed by the Maki-e artist. The “Goldfish” Maki-e fountain pen is limited to just 123 pieces worldwide and is presented in an exclusive gift box made from traditional Japanese Paulownia wood—a symbol of respect and refinement.

 Please note we are unable to accept a return of this pen for any reason once it has been used with ink. Please thoroughly inspect and dry test the pen before use.