Japanese Theater, Italian Craftsmanship
This is the story of a collaboration between two brands that, at first glance, seem to have little in common. On one side is Montegrappa, the prestigious Italian manufacturer of luxury writing instruments. On the other is Zohiko, the renowned Japanese lacquerware studio founded in 1661, celebrated for its exquisite lacquer craftsmanship and responsible for numerous works represented in collections associated with Japan’s Imperial Court.
The result is an extraordinary fountain pen inspired by the centuries-old tradition of Japanese Noh theater, interpreted through the refined craftsmanship of Italian penmaking.
Three Masks, Only 24 Pens
The pen forms part of an exceptionally exclusive collection featuring designs inspired by different masks used in Japanese Noh theater: Hannya, representing a female figure transformed by powerful emotions; Shishiguchi, a fierce supernatural character; and Shintai, representing a divine figure.
The masks are rendered in two-tone 18-karat gold, creating miniature sculptural works around the body of each pen.
The designs selected for the collection depict authentic historical masks that underwent an extensive and meticulous restoration process, carried out with the consent of their respective owners.
Only eight examples of each mask design were produced, bringing total production of the entire collection to just 24 fountain pens worldwide.
The Art of Taka-maki-e
The body of the pen is crafted from high-quality resin with an enamel finish and decorated with gold and silver powders using the highly complex, handcrafted Japanese technique known as Taka-maki-e.
This traditional decorative art creates raised, three-dimensional designs through multiple layers of Urushi lacquer. Metallic powders are subsequently applied to build the desired forms and give the decoration its remarkable depth, texture and brilliance.
The result is a writing instrument that is as much a miniature work of Japanese decorative art as it is a functional fountain pen.
Details Inspired by Noh Theater
The name Kitcho translates from Japanese as “a sign of good fortune,” and numerous details throughout the pen reinforce its connection with traditional Japanese theater.
The clip, for example, is shaped like an open Japanese folding fan, an elegant reference to an object closely associated with Japanese performance and ceremonial traditions.
The pen’s metal components are crafted from 925 sterling silver, while the piston and ink-filling system incorporate ebonite.
Completing the design is an 18-karat gold nib, itself decorated with imagery inspired by Japanese theatrical tradition and available in several nib widths.
With its combination of Italian penmaking, Japanese lacquer artistry, precious metals and centuries of cultural tradition, the Montegrappa Kitcho Noh Masks collection represents an extraordinary meeting between two very different worlds of craftsmanship.
Bottom line: A masterful encounter between East and West.
Price: Approximately €24,000
