Giglio Fountain Pen

Description

This design began with the idea of doing a tribute to learning. Thinking of the learner beginning as a blank canvas, we took inspiration for the backdrop engraving on the sterling silver barrel from the textile pattern of an artist’s canvas. Among its other symbolic meanings in Italian art history, the grapevine represents the fruits of one’s labors. Knowing that learning requires effort that produces fruitful benefits, we overlaid the grapevine on top of the canvas. Finally, the Fleur de Lis (a Lily flower or Iris), has symbolized many things over the centuries. During the French reign of Louis IX (St. Louis), the three petals represented faith, wisdom and chivalry. In other contexts it is associated with purity, light and virtue. We think of all of these as traits of the educated but continual lifelong learner. Hence, through the pen the learner engages through dedicated effort to move from a blank canvas to gaining the fruits of lifelong learning.

The pen’s sterling silver barrel is first hard oxidized using a technique with medieval origins. It is then engraved, producing a striking contrast between the natural silver and the polished, oxidized surface. The negative space surrounding the Fleur de Lis is cut away to reveal a sub barrel made of an Italian acrylic that matches the grip section and the cap. Other appointments are plated in 18k rose gold and 18k ruthenium.

The fountain pen is fitted with a #6 Bock Nib which is available in EF, F, M and B point sizes. It comes with a piston converter to use bottled ink and will also accept standard international cartridges.