For your consideration, we are thrilled to present for sale is this magnificent, circa 2005 Danitrio Ryūsui-ni Sakura Maki-e on Takumi (Model N-162) Fountain Pen, a breathtaking work of Japanese artistry that unites tradition, craftsmanship, and elegance in one extraordinary writing instrument. Handcrafted and decorated by the master artisan Koichiro Okazaki, this pen features an 18K solid gold “Fireball” medium nib and comes complete with its original high-gloss black lacquer presentation box and polishing cloth. This example has never been inked and remains in mint, museum-quality condition.
The Ryūsui-ni Sakura—translated as Cherry Blossoms on a Stream—is a timeless Japanese motif celebrating beauty, renewal, and the fleeting nature of life. In Japan, the blooming of the Sakura symbolizes both hope and impermanence, an image that resonates deeply within Japanese culture and art. This Danitrio masterpiece captures that poetic essence with astonishing precision and emotional depth.
The pen’s base is finished in Roiro-migaki, a hand-polished black Urushi lacquer that gleams like still water. Upon this mirror-like surface, the artist meticulously layered Togidashi Maki-e with gold powder to depict the flowing stream, while the delicate cherry blossoms (Sakura) are brought to life through Raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) and Rankaku (quail eggshell) techniques—each fragment hand-placed, polished, and sealed with layers of transparent lacquer. The result is an iridescent, multi-dimensional scene that changes subtly as light moves across the pen, a hallmark of true Maki-e mastery.
The Takumi model—meaning “good design or craft” in Japanese—is distinguished by its balanced, cigar-shaped form, embodying both elegance and ergonomic perfection. The gold-plated clip complements the warm undertones of the Urushi and gold design, while the artisan’s signature, Koichiro Okazaki, appears on the lower barrel, affirming the authenticity and individuality of this handcrafted piece.
Measuring 5 7/8 inches capped, with a diameter of 18.14mm at its widest point and a weight of 1.19 ounces, the pen feels substantial yet perfectly balanced in the hand. The cap threads securely onto the barrel, displaying Danitrio’s trademark precision.
Fitted with Danitrio’s celebrated 18K gold #6 “Fireball” nib, this pen delivers the sublime writing experience for which the brand is revered. The nib—engraved with the sacred flame motif of Fudō Myōō, the Japanese God of Fire—embodies strength, purity, and illumination. The iridium tipping is measuring approximately .86mm or a Medium nib point. These Danitrio nibs are known to perform effortlessly with a line that glides across the page with fluid grace.
The fountain pen fills via the Danitrio-branded ink converter system, which has been tested with water to confirm proper function.
Each Ryūsui-ni Sakura is a unique, handcrafted object of art requiring two to six months to complete. While not formally a numbered limited edition, production was extremely limited—fewer than 100 pieces are believed to exist worldwide.
This particular example, never inked and preserved in mint condition, stands as a pinnacle of contemporary Maki-e artistry and a testament to Danitrio’s devotion to preserving Japan’s lacquer heritage. A true collector’s treasure, the Ryūsui-ni Sakura on Takumi is not merely a writing instrument but a poetic expression of transience, beauty, and the eternal flow of craftsmanship through generations.
Whether cherished as a centerpiece in a fine writing collection or admired as a museum-grade example of Japanese art, this Danitrio Ryūsui-ni Sakura Fountain Pen is a masterwork that transcends utility—an heirloom of timeless artistry and quiet power.
