Yakumo-nuri Chijimi - Nishikihebi Fountain Pen

Available for Pre-Order Estimated Delivery Date: July 2026 Notice: Each Urushi fountain pen is handcrafted with no two pieces exactly alike, which is a valuable characteristic of hand-crafted art. Therefore, the pen that you received might be slightly different from the prototype pictures, yet, at the same time, it will be a unique artwork of your own. This pen comes with the 18K Shogun Nib. The Origin of Yakumo-nuri Yakumo-nuri is a legendary Urushi (Japanese lacquer) technique that originated in Matsue City of Shimane Prefecture. Despite its reputation for beauty, it is a relatively young art style, having been invented by Matsue lacquer artist Heiichi Sakata in the early Meiji period. The name ‘Yakumo’ was invented by Heiichi Sakata, who was reportedly inspired by the oldest Japanese poem - Yakumo Tatsu. The Design Chijimi-nuri, which loosely translates to Shrinkage Lacquer, involves a specific type of Urushi which will literally shrink as it dries and matures, resulting in a unique texture that cannot be replicated by any other means. To achieve this, Master Artisan Nagaya Momoko coats the ebonite base with two coatings of Urushi before adding a layer of the special Chijimi (shrinking) Urushi. As the Urushi is left to dry in a controlled environment, deep lines and whorls across the surface of the fountain pen will be formed. This creates a texture akin to the grooves of an oak tree's bark, and just like a tree, the pattern will always be random, and impossible to replicate from one pen to another. The Yellow Python As early as Japan's Jomon Period (14,000 - 300 BC), From as early as the Jomon period, the snake has held a lasting presence in Japanese culture, often associated with protection, renewal, and the quiet balance between nature and daily life. Drawing from this enduring symbolism, Master Artisan Nagaya Momoko developed a design that reflects both the form and spirit of the serpent. Rather than a literal interpretation, the expression is conveyed through material and surface. Nishikihebi (錦蛇): The Yellow Python (Nishikihebi) was introduced to Japan centuries ago, and it quickly became embedded in the cultural landscape of Japanese history. Its commanding presence and quiet strength have since been regarded as symbols of power and protection. it became a symbol of the gods of certain extinct religions. This character is reflected through the Chijimi-nuri finish. As the Urushi cures, it gently contracts, settling into even the finest details of the surface and forming a rich, tactile texture. The Artisan: Nagaya Momoko Born in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, Nagaya Momoko graduated from the illustrious Kanagawa College of Art before opening her own studio in the city of Izumo. With the aim of preserving and developing the local traditional craft of Yakumo-nuri, she works on creating artworks that masterfully meld modern innovations with traditional Yakumo-nuri. When we learned of Nagaya Momoko’s personal philosophy, it was clear that it aligned with our own commitment to preserving traditional arts, which is why we hope our collaboration will be the beginning of more artworks that can raise awareness of these underrated techniques. Specifications Base material: Ebonite Art: Yakumo-nuri, Chijimi (shrinkage Urushi technique) Filling mechanism: Converter or Cartridge (Sailor Standard) Nib: 18K Solid Gold Shogun (Available in Rhodium-plated Form, as well) Feed: Plastic Compact air-tight cap: Prevents ink from drying prematurely Packaging Traditional Japanese Wooden Box + Pen Kimono + Instructional Materials + Converter + Cartridge