2023
Pilot Limited Edition 105th Anniversary Emperor White Rabbit Fountain Pen
PI.LE.105TH23
Pilot Limited Edition 105th Anniversary Emperor White Rabbit Fountain Pen
The newest addition to the Pilot Namiki Collection, being released under the Pilot rather than the Namiki brand to celebrate the 105th anniversary of Pilot's founding.
In celebration of Pilot's 105th anniversary, Pilot presented a commemorative fountain pen as a token of their gratitude to their loyal customers throughout the years.
The new Pilot Emperor 2023 White Rabbit Limited Edition also celebrates 2023 as the Year of the Rabbit in the Asian calendar. In Japanese culture, the white rabbit holds special significance as a symbol of fortune, longevity, and cleverness. Its appearance is often associated with positive omens and the potential for favorable outcomes.
Limited to 99 pieces worldwide, the White Rabbit pen is an exclusive collector's item. Equipped with a #50, medium-sized 18-karat gold nib, it combines functionality with elegance. The eyedropper filling system provides an extremely large ink capacity.
The new Pilot Emperor 2023 White Rabbit Limited Edition is both a master work of Maki-e art as well as an exquisitely wonderful fountain pen. Testament to Pilot's commitment to innovation and excellence, this pen's magnificence lies not only in its functionality but in the intricate maki-e artistry that adorns it.
The pen's motif is inspired by the tale of the "Rabiit of Inaba" in Kojiki, the oldest chronicle in Japan. The theme of the story "Integrity" and "Kindness", these 2 are important elements in contemporary society that recognizes and respects diversity.
The pen's canvas is a reflection of traditional togidashi maki-e with platinum powder as the backdrop. The deity, Okuninushi, is meticulously brought to life using taka maki-e and platinum powder techniques, lending depth and texture to the piece. The clouds, grass, and rabbits are equally captivating, employing taka maki-e to capture fine details with utmost precision. A harmonious blend of togidashi maki-e and raden (mother of pearl) come together to form the waves that backdrop the rabbit, showcasing an exquisite interplay of textures. Among the many highlights, the rocks emerge with striking realism thanks to the shishiai-togidashi takamakie technique.
Each of these traditional maki-e methods carries its own distinct artistry: togidashi maki-e involves polishing layers of lacquer to reveal underlying layers, taka maki-e employs raised designs with multiple layers of lacquer, and raden introduces the shimmering iridescence of mother of pearl. This maki-e piece of art, skillfully integrated into a functional fountain pen, not only captures the essence of Pilot's legacy but also celebrates the profound artistic heritage of Japan.
Each of the 99 White Rabbit fountain pens is presented in an elegant, limited edition wooden gift box with a gorgeous, deep Pilot blue lining and a serial number plate. Accompanying this exquisite pen is a limited edition bottle of black ink, its cap adorned with a gold rabbit, symbolizing luck and prosperity. The set further includes a polishing cloth, an artisan card detailing the creative journey, and a comprehensive use and care guide.