The Phenomenal Dragon

This fabulous fine writing instrument is very special and unique as it is crafted in 2 different genres of Japanese Lacquer Art, namely Chinkin Lacquer Art; (a carving technique); and Maki-e Lacquer Art; by a husband-and-wife team of Lacquer Artists.

A medley of precious metal powders and Urushi lacquer feature here. Takamaki-e technique is used for the face, hands, and legs of the dragon. Eggshell bits are used for the horns and claws, and seashell bits are used for the eyes. “Blue gold” (mixture of gold and silver), silver, and Nashiji gold powders are used for the body of the dragon.

The scales of the dragon are created using Harikiri technique, carving each individual scale. The clouds are created with gold powder and Nashiji gold powder, and the movement of wind is evoked with intricate dot carving.