Inspiration

The inspiration behind the collection is a traditional deck of playing cards. Departing from the conventional idea, the brand takes a more poetic direction, linking each of the four suits to a season: clubs for spring, diamonds for summer, hearts for autumn, and spades for winter. Together, they reflect the natural cycle of the year and the passing of time. Pelikan also had this subtle numerical reference in mind when developing the concept: the 52 cards together total 364, with the joker bringing the number to 365. This creates another link to the calendar year and reinforces the idea of a continuous cycle.

Moreover, each suit carries a meaning: diamonds symbolize wealth, hearts represent love, clubs embody happiness, while spades, traditionally the strongest suit, stand for courage and resilience.

Design & Materials

The highly detailed artwork is rendered on a deep black urushi lacquer base using the Kaga Togidashi-Takamaki-e technique, which combines raised and polished lacquer work, allowing each motif to stand out. Layers of lacquer and precious powders are carefully applied and polished by hand, giving the surface depth, contrast and a distinctive interplay of red, black and gold.

The design continues the seasonal narrative through a series of symbolic elements. Cherry blossoms symbolise spring, flowing water reflects the energy of summer, autumn leaves suggest change and maturity, and snow patterns evoke the stillness of winter. Traditional Japanese patterns such as Sayagata and Asanoha are also incorporated, symbolising continuity, growth and lasting happiness.

Writing Experience & Collectibility

At the heart of the writing instrument is an 18k gold nib, whose smoothness has won over thousands of users. The pen is equipped with Pelikan’s traditional piston-filling mechanism, often praised for its generous ink capacity. The edition is strictly limited to 123 pieces worldwide, with each piece hand-painted by master artisan Ishikura Mitsuhiro, then individually numbered and signed. As its name suggests, this lucky charm is now waiting to find its home.