The chrysanthemum (“kiku”) plays a huge role in Japanese culture, as it is the crest of the imperial family whose seat is known as the Chrysanthemum Throne. A symbol of royalty and endurance, the flower is also seen in many government buildings and official documents, including passports. 

The bellflower (“kikyō”), on the other hand, stands for elegance, strength, and undying love. Said to have been bountiful in royal gardens during the Heian period, these flowers are often seen on modern-day kimono, and are even carried in family crests. 

Both flowers herald autumn and are considered an important part of Japanese life. Their beauty is reinterpreted on the Sailor Maki-e Chrysanthemum and Bellflower (Kiku to Kikyō). While Sailor produces a lot of maki-e pens, this is a discontinued design that is very hard to find. Lucky for you, we have a pre-owned unit for sale with a 14-karat gold H-M nib. Expect signs of use given that it is an older version but it has no heavy wear. We’re offering only the pen, no box or papers. 

Length capped: 13.3 cm. 
Length uncapped: 11.8 cm.