The arrival of the Montblanc Meisterstuck Calligraphy collection in 2019 was an intriguing proposition. Pens of lavish construction and storied inspiration are par for the course for the iconic penmaker – but here were some that actually wrote differently. They were equipped with a flexible nib that varies line thickness based on the writing pressure, and allowed skilled users to create flowing works of art. Flex nibs are not in themselves new, but they are rare – a niche within a niche – and Montblanc committing to them was a sign that the brand is serious about the art and history of writing.
Following up this year is an even rarer type of nib. The Meisterstuck Maki-e Calligraphy Tribute to Kyoto Fine Craftsmanship Limited Edition 88 (RM147,500) has a curved nib, ground such that holding the pen at different angles will create different line thicknesses. It is capable of producing organic, brush-like lines that are particularly well-suited to character languages, as well as drawing and sketching.
This type of nib is most associated with Japanese writing and art, and it is thus fitting that it is presented alongside another Japanese heritage craft. As it has been for hundreds of years, maki-e is accomplished entirely by hand, and involves the application finishing finishing of many layers of lacquer and gold powder. Each pen of this series has been tended to by a Japanese master of this technique.
The scene it depicts is that of a traditional apprentice geisha in the city of Kyoto, which has long been the cultural heart of Japan. Her kimono is the star attraction; its design was created in collaboration with Chiso, a kimono atelier founded in 1555 – in Kyoto, of course. Its patterning is exquisitely detailed and includes an incredibly fine mosaic of mother-of-pearl.
The pen’s fittings are solid gold with a black finish, while the nib – also solid gold – is engraved with delicate blossoms in yet another nod to traditional Japanese art.
