MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP

Lacquer art was invented in China and can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty (1600 – 1046 BCE).

It also spread to Japan among other places. It was further refined there into different techniques. Lacquer art finally reached its peak in the 9th century. Objects made from wood, clay or metal are covered with several wafer-thin lacquer layers, and decorated with figures or ornaments, and with inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory.

In this way, the panels of the Vieux-Laque Room are an expression of perfect craftsmanship spanning over thousands of years.

FAR EASTERN AURA IN PERFECTION

We were very pleased to have acquired true artists of their craft for the design work of the “Pen of the Year 2016”: 

The conservator of the Vieux-Laque Room Silvia Miklin and the Japanese artist Tomizo Saratani who specialises in the Maki-e technique. We worked together developing a motif that is divided into three parts, yet comes together to make a whole. During the most time consuming phases, each of the three plates are first painted black, then polished and burnt several times by hand. 

Then the artist lovingly draws the motif on the lacquer and then sprinkles the still wet drawing several times with 24-carat gold powder in different tints. This results in a relief that can still be perceived through additional protective lacquer works. Thus the characteristic look-and-feel of Hira Maki-e lacquer work is born.

GOLD-PLATED, LACQUER

The Special Limited Edition are adorned by three plates, which are first painted black, then polished and burnt several times by hand. Thereafter the artist lovingly draws the motif on the lacquer and sprinkles the still wet drawing several times with 24-carat gold powder in different tints. This results in a relief that can still be perceived through additional protective lacquer works. The cap is adorned by a faceted Onyx which is ground and polished by hand.

Black, masterly-painted lacquer panels placed in panelling made from flamed maple and set with a gilded frame have adorned the Vieux-Laque Room in Schönbrunn Palace since 1770. Here you will find a special expression of the deep love between Maria Theresa and Francis Stephen in craftsmanship perfected over thousands of years – lacquer art. This story is the inspiration for the Pen of the Year, available in both a gold-plated and platinum-plated version. Both editions come with an 18-carat, bicolour gold nib that is run in by hand. An end-cap protects the rotary knob of the plunger mechanism of the plunger-type fountain pen.

• Special Edition, 24-carat gold-plated barrel adorned by three lovingly with 24-carat gold powder painted lacquered plates

• Cap of the pen is adorned by a faceted Onyx which is ground and polished by hand

• 18-carat bicolour gold nib, run in by hand

• Available in the nib width M

• Individually numbered writing instruments

• Exclusive wooden box with additional insert with space for additional 6 writing instruments, high- quality brochure and a certificate of authenticity

• Limited to 120 pieces

Roller Ball Pen

• Special Edition, 24-carat gold-plated barrel adorned by three lovingly with 24-carat gold powder painted lacquer plates

• Cap of the pen is adorned by a faceted Onyx which is ground and polished by hand

• Long–lasting black rollerball refill

• Individually numbered writing instruments

• Exclusive wooden box with additional insert with space for additional 6 writing instruments, high-quality brochure and a certificate of authenticity

• Limited to 50 pieces