For your consideration, we are offering for sale this Never Inked Limited Edition Montblanc Francois I Fountain Pen from the 2008 Patron of the Art Series. This particular pen is limited edition number 1191 out of 4810. This pen comes with the original boxes, Montblanc Literature, and International Service Certificate. This fountain pen has never been inked, is considered New Old Stock, and is in Mint Condition fitted with an 18K (.82mm) medium nib.
King Francois I left his mark on France’s national culture as a royal Patron of the arts. The design of the Limited Edition François I fountain pen pays tribute to the life and work of the French Renaissance King. Splendid insignia of royal power blend harmoniously with artistic expression. The Edition 4810 pen features a tiger-eye gemstone barrel, a reference to a charm worn by Francois I, contrasting with the black precious resin of the cap and barrel. Ornamental Renaissance patterns are masterfully engraved on the elaborately modeled clip and gold-plated cap and barrel rings, giving the pen its royal aura. This Montblanc is a limited edition "1191 of 4810."
The cap and barrel are in perfect condition with no cracks, nicks, dings, dents, or repairs. The cap is always securing tightly to the barrel. The 18K gold plate ring designs have very detailed engraved designs. The fountain pen is marked on the side of the cap with, "1191 / 4810". The barrel is made from "Tiger's Eye" stone and displays beautiful depth and color. The fountain pen measures 5 3/4" capped and 6 5/8" inches posted. The fountain pen weighs 2.17 ounces.
This Montblanc fountain pen uses a piston filling system and I have tested it with water and it works as it was designed to. I have cleaned the inside of the barrel and greased the piston for smooth operation. There were no signs of ink inside the barrel or the nib - this is how I came to the conclusion the fountain pen had never been inked.
This fountain pen features an 18K medium nib. The specially designed 18k gold nib bears the engraved symbol of the French Royal house: the French lily. The nib is stamped with, "4810, 18K/750, 2008, MONTBLANC" and is considered a MEDIUM point, measuring .82mm with digital calipers. The pen has never been used with ink to preserve its pristine condition for the next owner or collector.
This Montblanc comes in the original Montblanc wooden lacquered box, both outer boxes, and the International Service Certificate.
France's artistic and cultural peak took place during the reign of Francois I, the country's first Renaissance monarch, who was coronated at the Reims cathedral in 1515. A passionate poet, Francois I improved the Royal Library, making it open to the general public, and established the Collège de France in Paris, which still exists to this day. He also introduced the study of Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. In 1536, his policy helped France move away from Latin as the language of bureaucracy. Francois I brought renowned artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, to Paris and had him work at the king's court until his death. Da Vinci even brought the "Mona Lisa" with him to France.
Other world-famous works of art by Michelangelo, Titian, and Raphael were also brought to France at the kings’ request. Many Renaissance artists accepted the invitation to work at the French court under his patronage. As the patron of arts and culture, King Francois I laid the foundations for the royal collection of paintings, which is to this day on display in the Louvre Museum in Paris.
The Patron of the Art Limited Edition Fountain Pen displays a regal appearance while paying tribute to Francois I. The fountain pen has never been inked and displays no wear. I consider this fountain pen in New Old Stock, Never Inked, Mint condition. This will be a fabulous writer for someone who appreciates the Patron of the Art collection and loves detailed craftsmanship in their fountain pens.
