For 2006, Namiki is proud to present the Limited
Edition Pheasant & SAKURA. Pilot has recently created
a new pen design using the Chinkin technique based on
the motif of cherry blossoms, Japan's national flower, and pheasants, Japan's national bird. Using the Chinkin technique, patterns are carved into the lacquer surface using a range of chisels with various blade profiles. Then, more lacquer is poured into the carved grooves and gold foil or gold powder is inlayed. The engraving methods in the Chinkin technique include Senbori (linear carving), giving a real sense of the carver's art, Tenbori (dot carving), Kebori (hairline carving), Katagiribori (one-side carving) and Kosuribori (rub carving). These techniques yield good perspective, high relief, fine delicate decorative effects and rich textures.

The Japanese archipelago runs roughly north/south, and the wave of cherry blossoms sweeps up the country over a period of about two months from the south to the north. From ancient times, it has been a custom in Japan to celebrate the joy of spring by holding parties under the cherry blossom trees. It is said that the Japanese sense of esthetics draws on the glorious beauty of the cherry blossoms in bloom and the way in which the spent blossoms fall without reluctance.

Japanese pheasants tend to live near human habitats and have long had a close relationship with people. They frequently appear in Japanese myths and tales as well as in Japanese paintings. The male bird has no facial plumage and its face is a vivid red. With its rich bright blue and green feathers and long tale, the male bird is very beautiful. The female bird has a subdued, inconspicuous look with dark brown feathers, black spots and a short tail. However, it has a very strong maternal instinct.

When creating these "Pheasant & SAKURA" motif pens, a variety of different bladed chisels are used. The artist carves with great attention to fine detail using the Senbori and Tenbori techniques. Expressing the texture and softness of the pheasant's flowing plumage is achieved using the Senbori technique, and this difficult work highlights the consummate skill of the artist. The cherry tree trunk forms a powerful presence in the work. To attain the delicate expression of the petals, the Tenbori technique is used. Gold leaf is applied and then platinum powder is sprinkled on the petals and nacreous shell is embedded in the center of the flower.

Created by hand by master Chinkin artisan Shouji, only 99 pieces of The Limited Edition "Pheasant & SAKURA" will be produced worldwide. A precision 18-karat gold nib with rhodium accent and a superior ink delivery system ensure first-class writing quality and long-lasting performance. A special ink bottle designed specifically for this collectible pen completes the majestic presentation.

The special box designed for this limited edition "Pheasant & SAKURA" fountain pen is made using the Kaba-zaiku technique (cherry tree bark craft), one of the traditional Japanese craftwork techniques. Kaba-zaiku is an extremely complex technique, which originated in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture about 200 years ago. A thin layer of mountain cherry tree bark is pealed off and carefully bonded onto the box surface. The inner bark of cherry trees and Raden technique are used to express the cherry blossoms. This results in a compelling cherry blossom image.

We are sure that you will enjoy using this pen with its "Pheasant and SAKURA" motif symbolizing the culture of Japan and that it will serve you well for many years. The Namiki Kokkokai, a group of craftsmen dedicated to the work of decorating lacquer pen bodies, is committed to expanding the use of the Chinkin lacquer technique, and continually strive to make these artifacts a pleasing addition to your life.