Armand Jean du Plessis, most famously known as Cardinal Richelieu, was a nobleman, a clergyman, a politician, and a complicated character in French history. As the chief minister of King Louis XIII, his goals revolved around power—enabling the King to have absolute command while weakening the rest of the nobility, and ensuring France’s supremacy in Europe. 

He was deeply unpopular to many due to his authoritarian methods, but it was undeniable that he was a shrewd statesman. He valued the state above all—even above strict religious adherence, although he believed that tolerating too many sects could cause divisions. He also founded the Académie Française that standardized the French language, and was a patron of the arts, believing that theater was a powerful tool in shaping people’s opinions. 

No matter how one sees Cardinal Richelieu, there is no question that he was one of the people who shaped France into the country it is today. This complicated historical character is the subject of the Visconti Richelieu Burgundy fountain pen. Made from rich swirls of burgundy and black acrylic, it features sterling silver inlays that you’ll be hard-pressed to find in modern pens. To accentuate luxury are pink sapphires on its finial and clip. It carries a two-toned, 18-karat gold nib decorated with the fleur-de-lis, a symbol of the French monarchy of old. 

We have for sale a pre-owned Visconti Richelieu Burgundy with an F nib. It comes complete with its box, papers, and other inserts. 

Length capped: 14.3 cm.