Inspiration

The Namiki Yukari Wolf Moon takes its name from the first full moon of January, traditionally known as the “Wolf Moon.” The name is associated with winter folklore and the sound of wolves calling through the cold landscape. Here, the wolf represents two contrasting ideas: the loyalty and resilience of the pack, and the spirit of independence as the young wolf leaves its family behind to set out on a path of its own.

Design & Materials

Starting from a black Urushi lacquer base, the artisans carefully built the scene of a highly detailed white wolf beneath a winter moon, emerging through a composition of silver powder and richly layered lacquers in luminous shades of white, icy blue and soft violet. It is a difficult task even for the most skilled craftsmen, given that the pen measures 143 mm in length and just 13 mm in diameter. A closer look at each tiny hand-painted line reveals the complexity involved.

Several traditional Japanese decorative techniques were used for this project. The wolf’s piercing eye and the distant mountains were created with Raden, using pieces of mother-of-pearl that reflect the light. Wild grasses were rendered using Hira Maki-e, while Togidashi Maki-e and silver powder created the polished, shimmering surface surrounding the scene. Finely scattered silver powder was used to capture the full moon in all its splendour. Each pen is signed by Kokkokai artisans.

Writing Experience & Collectibility

The Wolf Moon is fitted with an 18k gold nib, which comes in two widths: Fine and Medium, allowing a choice between a more precise line and a slightly broader one. The Namiki Yukari Wolf Moon is produced in a limited run of 300 pieces worldwide and will be available from December 2026.