Shammuramat (811-806 BCE) was a legendary Assyrian queen who ruled after the passing of her husband Shamshi-Adad V and before her son Adad Nirari III came of age. She assumed power during a time when the Assyrian Empire was at its weakest due to years of rebellion brought about by her husband’s older brother.

During that time, it was unprecedented to have a woman rule, much less rule successfully. Shammuramat was able to stabilize and strengthen the empire, and she held enough power to keep the throne until her son was old enough to inherit it. 

She’s said to have built the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Gate of Ishtar, but there’s very little written about political achievements. Despite that her reputation had spread far and wide so much so that legends were made about her, for good or for ill. Some historians say that she was who the Greeks called “Semiramis”, who was birthed by a goddess and raised by doves. Some stories also say that she “wickedly” took the throne after her husband’s death.

Shammuramat, while controversial, remains to be one of the most well known Assyrian queens in history. Montblanc celebrates her through the Patron of the Art 4810 Semiramis fountain pen. With a base of precious black resin, the cap and barrel are layered with a filigree, gold-plated braid blended with red enamel finishes inspired by ancient Assyrian designs. It also features gold-plated fittings and an 18K-750 gold nib.

We have for sale a pre-owned Montblanc Patron of the Art 4810 Semiramis fountain pen with an F nib. It’s in good condition with very minimal micro scratches. We’re offering only the pen, no box or papers.

Length capped: 14.8 cm.
Length uncapped: 12.3 cm.