Disclaimer: I take no responsibility for pen envy or impulse purchases resulting from viewing this post.
Per usual, you can click on the images to view them larger. I do my best to provide you with high-quality pen porn. 😉
I don’t know if the first post I saw of the Maki-e Goldfish was the first time Cypress posted it, but I knew, instantly, I needed it, and left a comment to that effect. I received a message with an offer to hold one for me, at which point I discovered it wasn’t as expensive as I thought, and bought it. I have zero regrets.
360° view
As ever, we start with the 360° view. Because of the pen’s shape, with tapers at either end, I had to separate the layout of the cap and the barrel. But, if you prefer, you can see them both together. I realize there are more shadows on this layout than usual, but I’m trying to find a way to get the photos without a strong highlight down the middle. I’ll get there eventually.
Background details
While the goldfish are, of course, the stars of the pen, the background details are beautiful as well. the spiral on the cap near the finial is gorgeous, and I love the layers of materials and texture.
The rocky, or maybe sandy, area near the barrel finial also has an impressive set of layers. Despite the minimal texture and dimension, you get a feel of depth.
Seaweed… or coral?
I’m not sure if the greenery is meant to be seaweed or coral, but it’s really pretty. I love how it overlaps and punches together, kind of like pine needles. At a quick glance, it’s a jumble of shapes, but looking closer, you can see the individual “plants.”
Composition
The composition is masterfully planned out, with the goldfish leading you around the pen from the cap finial down to the barrel finial.
Goldfish
And, of course, there are the goldfish themselves. There’s the cute little guy at the top that is reminiscent of a goldfish I had as a kid. Then there’s the pudgy guy in the middle, and finally there’s the more bulbous guy at the bottom. From the colors to the gold detailing, they’re all adorable.
The Money Shot
This is truly a stunning pen, and I’m thrilled I was able to add it to my collection.
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Hi. I too jumped on this pen when I saw that they had reintroduced it after many years. I think the raised effect is called taka maki-e. It’s probably an old, traditional design, but have you noticed the similarity with the Namiki Emperor Goldfish pen?
I did notice that. It was part of why I wanted one because I’d have to sell some organs or win the lottery to even have a possibility of owning the emperor.