For your consideration, we are exceptionally pleased to offer this extraordinarily rare 2007 Stipula Etruria “Serpent's Lair” Maki-e Limited Edition Fountain Pen, number 1 of only 20 examples produced worldwide. Created through a remarkable collaboration between Stipula of Italy, Allian Pens of the United States, and renowned Master Japanese Maki-e artist Katsunobu Nishihara, this exceptional writing instrument represents the intersection of Italian penmaking, traditional Japanese lacquer artistry, and highly limited collectible production.
Offered in Mint, Never-Inked Condition, this remarkable example is crafted from ebonite and showcases an elaborate Maki-e and Raden composition depicting multiple serpents twisting across the pen's surface. Numbered 1/20 and personally signed by the artist, this is an exceptionally compelling opportunity for the serious collector of rare fountain pens and Japanese lacquer art.
The Stipula Etruria Serpent's Lair was introduced in 2007 as an exceptionally limited artistic edition, with production restricted to just 20 examples worldwide. Developed by Allian Pens using a Stipula Eturia ebonite fountain pen and Japanese Maki-e master Katsunobu Nishihara, the collection brought together three distinct traditions: Italian fountain pen design, American independent pen distribution, and centuries-old Japanese decorative lacquer techniques.
The result is far removed from an ordinary limited-edition fountain pen. The Serpent's Lair was conceived as a functional work of art, with the ebonite body serving as the canvas for an intricate, serpentine composition. The multiple twisting serpents create a dramatic sense of movement, transforming the pen into a miniature artistic landscape. The sophisticated use of Urushi lacquer and Raden detailing adds depth, texture, and visual complexity to the design.
Maki-e is a traditional Japanese decorative art in which designs are built through carefully applied lacquer and metallic or other decorative materials. Raden incorporates iridescent shell to produce luminous effects that shift with changing light. Together, these techniques create a richly layered presentation that rewards close inspection and distinguishes this pen from conventionally decorated writing instruments.
Number 1 of Only 20 Produced Worldwide - What makes this particular example especially noteworthy is its individual production number. The lower barrel is signed by Katsunobu Nishihara and hand-numbered “1/20,” identifying it as the first numbered example in this extremely limited edition.
For collectors, the combination of an edition restricted to just 20 pieces, the artist's signature, and the number 1 designation makes this a particularly desirable example. This is not simply a rare color variation or a standard production pen with decorative appointments. It is an individually numbered artistic edition created in exceptionally small quantities.
The section is engraved “Allian Pens” and “Made in Italy,” reflecting the collaboration behind the pen and its Italian manufacture.
The cap is fitted with a sterling silver vermeil clip, hallmarked “925” along its side edge. The clip provides an elegant contrast to the elaborate lacquer work while maintaining the refined character of the Etruria design.
This Stipula Etruria Serpent's Lair is preserved in Mint, Never-Inked Condition. The pen remains exceptionally well preserved, with no chips, cracks, or repairs observed. The original artistic finish retains its appeal, and the pen has not been inked, preserving its untouched status for the next owner.
The fountain pen measures approximately 5 5/8 inches capped and 6 5/8 inches posted, with a weight of approximately 1.01 ounces. Its proportions provide an elegant, well-balanced writing instrument while allowing the intricate decorative work to remain the visual centerpiece.
The pen is fitted with its original Stipula 14K/585 gold Medium nib, measuring approximately .80mm at the tipping when measured with digital calipers. The gold nib complements the Italian craftsmanship and makes this a fully realized fountain pen rather than simply a display object.
Filling is accomplished through the standard international cartridge/converter system. A Stipula-branded converter is included and has been tested with water, confirming that it functions smoothly. The new owner may therefore choose to preserve the pen as a collectible or introduce it to ink and enjoy it as a writing instrument.
The Stipula Etruria Serpent's Lair occupies a distinctive place among artistic fountain pens, combining the sculptural qualities of Japanese lacquer art with the design and engineering of an Italian writing instrument. Its limited production of just 20 examples worldwide makes it an uncommon discovery, and this particular pen's number 1/20 designation and artist's signature add further significance.
For the collector of Maki-e fountain pens, Japanese lacquer art, Stipula limited editions, or exceptional collaborative creations, this is an opportunity to acquire a pen that stands apart from the usual offerings in the vintage and modern collectible market.
The combination of intricate serpent imagery, Urushi and Raden artistry, an ebonite body, sterling silver vermeil clip, 14K gold Medium nib, and pristine never-inked condition makes this a particularly impressive example of the artistic possibilities of fine penmaking.
Stipula Etruria Serpent's Lair Maki-e Limited Edition No. 1/20 is an exceptionally scarce and visually compelling writing instrument, created in collaboration with Katsunobu Nishihara and preserved in remarkable original condition. For the serious collector who values genuine rarity, traditional Japanese decorative craftsmanship, and limited-edition fountain pens with a story to tell, this is a truly distinctive addition to a fine writing instrument collection.
