The Interesting Relation Between Japanese Fountain Pens And Japanese Swords

[Arkamas]

I've noticed some similarities when it comes to fountain pens and swords from Japan. They're both legendary for their fine craftsmanship and the work taken the create them by renowned craftsmen, as well as their reflection of the history and culture. I've heard of Japanese Swords and Maki-e fountain pens both referred to as national treasures. Maki-e as an art form seems to have been especially prevalent during the Edo period preceding the Meiji government, if my sources are correct. There is even some irony in Edward Bulwer-Lytton's saying "the pen is mightier than the sword" when it come to these two, and more so in regards to the history of the Meiji restoration and the restrictions that the Meiji government placed on swords carried by Samurai.

The fountain pen in itself seemed to have begun to really blossom as a writing instrument during this time period as well.

I've gained a fascination with Japanese history, particularly from that era. I suppose that's why I'm especially fond of Japanese fountain pens as well. Granted I ultimately don't know very much of that history, but I still found those things rather interesting.

Edited March 8, 2017 by Arkamas

[jar]

It's fascinating in more ways then one. From the introduction to the Japanese Military Armor collection at the Walters Art Gallery:

 

 

Most of the Japanese military objects William and Henry Walters collected were made during the Edo (1615-1867) and Meiji (1868-1912) periods. During these years, Japan was largely at peace. There was still a military class (the samurai), but they rarely engaged in active battle. Arms and armor became an outward symbol of status among the military class. Once Westerners were able to freely enter Japan after 1854, swords and sword fittings became popular items to collect. Some of the fittings in the Walters collection were made specifically for sale to Westerners and were never mounted on swords.

 

As I has mentioned here, my introduction to the world of Asian Art began when I was likely nine, maybe ten years old when I would wander down to the Walters as an escape from the boring day at the office. Much of the Walters collection is available online here.

[Arkamas]

Wow. That is quite the collection...

[Mrpink]

The government has melted many a sword in Japan, its good they dont take the pens away.

[BradGad]

...There is even some irony in Edward Bulwer-Lytton's saying "the pen is mightier than the sword" when it come to these two, and more so in regards to the history of the Meiji restoration and the restrictions that the Meiji government placed on swords carried by Samurai...

 

 

Wow! I'm flabbergasted! I'm gobsmacked! I'm crowbarred!

 

I never knew Edward Bulwer-Lytton coined that... "the pen is mightier than the sword". But, you're right!

 

Bulwer-Lytton, of "It was a dark and stormy night" fame, is famous for *bad* writing. There's an award for bad writing named after him... Google it: hours of fun!

 

But, that's not a bad line, the pen and sword thing. I can see it catching on.

 

~

 

On a separate note... sounds like you're onto something and sounds like you're having fun with it. So... Rock on! Let us know what you find! 10 points to Gryffindor!