The TAKETORI (竹取) series of glass pens is based on the story of Princess Kaguya (かぐや姫) returning to the moon. These works are defined by the vivid colors of glass accented by a gold ring, in a shape reminiscent of bamboo. The gold ring painted on the center of the pen is made by applying a liquid mixture of of gold and other chemicals to the glass and baking it at 550 degrees Celsius to form a gold film equivalent to 23-karat gold. The uneven pattern on the surface of the glass is called frost, a technique named after the frosty appearance of the glass. This technique has been used since around the Meiji era (1868-1912), and was often used for lamp burners and bath windows.
The Silver Moon (銀の月) version has a ring of platinum instead of gold.
The Ribbon Nib version features a unique nib made in the shape of a thin rectangle with 12 grooves which allows you to write calligraphy-like lines. It can be tricky to control the angle of the pen, to draw fine lines and control ink flow, but it is also quite fun!
The Wishing Upon the Moon (月に願う) was created with the image of the emperor, who has everything at his disposal, helplessly wishing upon the moon that Princess Kaguya would return.
Glass Studio TooS was established in 2002 in Okayama, Japan.
- Material: Glass
- Color: Translucent Purple
- Ring: Gold (Original) / Platinum (Silver Moon)
- Length: 12.5cm
- Box Included
- Handmade in Japan