Traveler’s Palm

Inspired by the tropical Traveler’s Palm and its striking gemstone-blue seeds, this AP Limited Editions pen explores the vivid contrast between luminous blue raden and deep black lacquered leaves. Three clusters of seeds create a flowing composition that brings movement and balance to the design.

Executed in togidashi maki-e and taka maki-e, the motifs are built in pronounced relief using silver powder beneath the lacquer, giving the pen a distinctly sculptural quality. The raised forms allow the leaves and seeds to stand out with depth and texture, making the design both visually striking and expressive to the touch. The seeds are crafted from carefully selected New Zealand abalone shell, with the shell’s natural unevenness preserved to enhance its jewel-like brilliance. Gold, platinum, and silver powders—including hirame and nashiji—create subtle variations of light, while delicate platinum and silver linework traces the graceful veins of the leaves. Raden accents at the top and bottom of the pen complete a design that highlights both the artistry and dimensional character of traditional maki-e.