Description
PIUMA Hane
A genuine touch of Japanese artistry has arrived in Bologna
An embodiment of timeless artistry and tradition, the PIUMA Urushi fountain pens are creations of rare beauty, blending Italian elegance with the ancient and exceptional Japanese Tamenuri technique.
The fountain pens are brought to life through the ancient Tamenuri technique, a painstaking process that has been perfected over centuries in Japan. This method involves the meticulous application of multiple layers of lacquer, each derived from the natural sap of the Urushi tree. Layer by layer, the lacquer is carefully cured, creating a deep, radiant red/burgundy finish that feels smooth to the touch and appears almost luminescent. The result is a surface that not only captivates with its depth and sheen but also boasts remarkable durability and resistance to the elements.
Light as a feather
Meaning “feather” in Japanese, our new edition is named Hane, complementing the spirit of our PIUMA collection, whose name also means “feather” in Italian. This shared symbolism reflects the fountain pen’s lightness, grace, and precision—qualities that transform the act of writing into an art form.
Just as a feather glides effortlessly through the air, the Hane fountain pen glides smoothly across the page. The name also honors the delicate mastery of the Urushi technique, which brings a sense of refinement and timeless beauty to this extraordinary piece. Together, Hane and PIUMA represent the harmony of two cultures, united by their reverence for artistry and elegance.
Layers of Legacy
The Tamenuri technique is different from other techniques, as the final translucent layer becomes clearer with time and enhances the colour underneath, bringing out the depth of the multiple layers of colour carefully applied by hand. The final translucent layer must be brushed on by hand, and each speck of dust needs to be removed with a needle before curing.
Guided by the steady hands of the master lacquer artist Arakawa-san, each layer is applied with unwavering precision, honoring the centuries-old tradition of Tamenuri. Once the lacquering is complete, a second artisan Hariya-san graces each fountain pen with a subtle, distinctive signature—a quiet mark of exclusivity and authenticity, making each piece truly one of a kind, with SCRIBO on one side and Arakawa-san name on the other, both written in Katakana letters.
Completed with polished metal elements, these new PIUMA Hane editions are the epitome of modern sophistication blended with age-old craftsmanship. The warm, rich tones of the lacquer harmonies beautifully with the sleek silhouette and metallic details, making these fountain pens not only functional writing instruments but also elegant collector’s items. Designed to endure as both a writing tool and a work of art, each fountain pen represents a seamless fusion of Japanese and Italian artistry, creating a piece that holds both cultural significance and timeless appeal.
Limited to only 50 pieces with yellow-gold and 50 pieces with ruthenium trim.
The artists behind the PIUMA Hane
Arakawa-san – the Master of Urushi
With decades of dedication to the ancient Tamenuri technique, Arakawa-san brings unmatched expertise to every Hane piece. Each layer of lacquer is meticulously applied by hand, a process requiring unwavering precision, patience, and a deep respect for tradition. His craftsmanship transforms every fountain pen into a radiant work of art, showcasing the depth and luster that only Urushi can achieve.
Hariya-san – the artist of the signature
Once the lacquering process is complete, Hariya-san, a renowned artisan, imbues each piece with a mark of distinction. Using Katakana script, he carefully applies SCRIBO on one side and Arakawa-san’s name on the other. This subtle yet significant touch ensures each Hane fountain pen is a one-of-a-kind creation, a true collector’s piece.
Rabea Gebler – the final touch
Finally, all pieces made by Arakawa-san and Hariya-san have been quality checked by Rabea Gebler, before they were sent back to Bologna for final assembling and packaging. German-born, Rabea Gebler mastered the art of Japanese woodturning and Urushi lacquering in Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture.
A warm thank you to all of them for helping us to realize a small work of art, an edition that we wanted to realize with all our passion and dedication.
From original kimono to handmade pen pouch exclusively for SCRIBO
Each PIUMA Hane fountain pen is presented in a beautifully crafted pouch, handmade in Bologna by the artisan Marco Montalti at Miyajima, a workshop specializing in Japanese textiles and antiques.
These pouches are made from authentic Japanese kimono fabrics, stitched using the same meticulous techniques employed in traditional kimono-making. Each pouch is unique, reflecting the individuality of the fountain pen it protects. This thoughtful packaging pays homage to the shared artistry of Italy and Japan, making every detail of this edition a celebration of cultural craftsmanship.