{"product_id":"namiki-hyoutan-namazu-limited-edition-200-japanese-maki-e-fountain-pen","title":"Namiki Hyoutan Namazu Limited Edition 200 | Japanese Maki-e Fountain Pen","description":"\u003cp\u003eA remarkable fusion of traditional Japanese Zen philosophy and exquisite Maki-e craftsmanship, the Namiki Hyoutan Namazu is an extraordinary writing instrument that embodies the wisdom, symbolism, and artistic heritage of Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduced in 2008, this exceptional limited edition was inspired by the traditional Japanese Zen painting theme known as \u003cstrong\u003eHyoutan Namazu\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning \"Catching a Catfish with a Gourd.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimited to just 200 pieces worldwide\u003c\/strong\u003e, this remarkable creation stands among Namiki's most distinctive early limited editions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe concept of Hyoutan Namazu originates from a famous Zen philosophical puzzle: how can one catch a slippery, constantly moving catfish using a smooth, rounded gourd?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seemingly impossible task represents the limitations of conventional thinking and encourages a deeper understanding of wisdom beyond ordinary logic. The subject has appeared in Japanese Zen paintings for centuries, symbolizing creativity, enlightenment, and the challenge of overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by renowned Kokkokai Maki-e artist \u003cstrong\u003eSeiki Chida\u003c\/strong\u003e, this masterpiece showcases the intricate \u003cstrong\u003eTogidashi Taka Maki-e\u003c\/strong\u003e technique, combining raised lacquer decoration, gold powder, platinum powder, and multiple carefully applied layers of traditional Japanese urushi lacquer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barrel features a beautifully rendered catfish, brought to life through delicate raised Maki-e techniques. Its graceful curves and finely detailed body create a remarkable sense of movement, as though the fish were gently swimming through water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cap is adorned with an elegant composition of gourds and intertwining vines. Platinum powder adds a distinctive brilliance to the gourds, while delicate golden details and carefully layered lacquer create extraordinary depth and sophistication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn traditional Japanese culture, gourds are also associated with good fortune, health, and longevity. The Japanese expression \u003cem\u003eMubyo\u003c\/em\u003e, meaning freedom from illness, is linked through wordplay to six gourds, making them an auspicious symbol of well-being and prosperity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe gracefully extending gourd vines further symbolize continuity, growth, and enduring good fortune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted in Namiki's prestigious \u003cstrong\u003eYukari Royale\u003c\/strong\u003e design, the fountain pen is equipped with an \u003cstrong\u003e18K gold No. 20 two-tone nib\u003c\/strong\u003e, combining exceptional writing performance with the artistry of traditional Japanese lacquer craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally released in 2008 and long since discontinued, the Hyoutan Namazu has become a particularly fascinating creation within Namiki's limited-edition history. Its distinctive Zen-inspired theme, elaborate Maki-e techniques, and exceptionally limited production make it a remarkable collector's piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore than simply a fine writing instrument, the Namiki Hyoutan Namazu is a celebration of Japanese Zen philosophy, traditional symbolism, and the extraordinary craftsmanship of master Maki-e artisans.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the elegant imagery of a gourd and a catfish, this masterpiece preserves a centuries-old philosophical tradition, transforming every written word into an expression of timeless Japanese artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Namiki","offers":[{"title":"M","offer_id":41053652615297,"sku":null,"price":13000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0609\/2960\/5761\/files\/201E4299-CC5D-4C14-95E7-3A2A1073DEF0.png?v=1794125516","url":"https:\/\/izumipen.com\/products\/namiki-hyoutan-namazu-limited-edition-200-japanese-maki-e-fountain-pen","provider":"IZUMIPEN LIMITED","version":"1.0","type":"link"}