Nagasawa Kobe INK Monogatari Cloisonné Pin
The Nagasawa Kobe INK Monogatari Cloisonné Pin brings one of Japan’s most beloved ink collections into the world of collectibles and accessories. Inspired by the distinctive shape of the Kobe INK Monogatari ink bottles, each pin reproduces one of the collection’s iconic colours through a carefully crafted transparent enamel finish.
Originally created for enthusiasts of Kobe inks, these pins have also become popular among pin collectors, lovers of Japanese stationery and anyone who enjoys carrying small details inspired by writing culture. Their compact size and refined finish make them an attractive way to celebrate the world of Kobe INK Monogatari beyond the writing desk.
Kobe INK Monogatari: the colours of Kobe transformed into a collection
Kobe INK Monogatari is a collection of inks created by Nagasawa Bungu Center to represent the colours, landscapes and stories of the Japanese city of Kobe. Since its launch in 2007, it has grown into one of Japan’s most respected regional ink collections.
Each colour takes its name from a location, landscape or cultural landmark associated with Kobe. From the greens of the Rokko Mountains to colours inspired by the harbour and historic neighbourhoods of the city, the collection offers a unique chromatic interpretation of Kobe itself.
These pins reproduce the characteristic silhouette of the Kobe INK Monogatari ink bottle and are available in selected colours from the collection. The range changes from time to time and may include colours such as Rokko Green, Hatoba Blue, Kitano Ijinkan Red, Shinkaichi Gold, Rokko Shichidanka and Nishi-Maiko Pearl Blue.
Shippou: the Japanese art of cloisonné enamel
These pins are produced using the Japanese technique known as Shippou (七宝), internationally referred to as cloisonné. This decorative enamel process is appreciated for its vivid colours, durability and refined appearance.
The combination of brass, nickel plating and transparent enamel allows the colours of the original inks to be represented with remarkable clarity while preserving the elegant appearance of the Kobe INK Monogatari bottles.
Kobe INK Monogatari beyond writing
Over the years, Kobe INK Monogatari has evolved into far more than an ink collection. It has inspired notebooks, stationery items and collectible objects that allow enthusiasts to enjoy the colours of Kobe in different ways.
Among the most notable examples are the Graphilo × Nagasawa A5 Kobe Ink Notebook and the Nagasawa Kobe Font × Graphilo A5 Plain Notebook, both developed specifically for fountain pen users and closely connected to the Kobe INK Monogatari collection.
These cloisonné pins are a natural extension of that philosophy, bringing the colours of Kobe into the world of collecting and personal accessories.
Use and fastening system
The pin uses a metal clutch fastening, a system commonly found on high-quality badges and lapel pins. It provides a secure and discreet attachment to clothing and accessories.
It can be worn on jackets, blazers, shirts, bags, pen cases and other accessories. The fine pin minimises damage to fabric while the clasp remains securely in place during normal use.
Package Contents
One Nagasawa Kobe INK Monogatari cloisonné pin in the selected colour, supplied with a metal clutch fastening.
If you are looking for other products related to Kobe INK Monogatari or the Japanese stationery of Nagasawa Bungu Center, please contact us at inktraveler@inktraveler.com. We will be pleased to assist you.
Technical Specifications
- Material: Brass
- Finish: Shippou (cloisonné) enamel
- Plating: Nickel plated
- Fastening: Metal clutch
- Size: 15 × 19 mm
- Made in Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this pin represent?
It reproduces the iconic shape of the Kobe INK Monogatari ink bottle, one of Japan’s best-known fountain pen ink collections.
What is Shippou?
Shippou is the Japanese name for a traditional decorative enamelling technique known internationally as cloisonné.
Is it a collector’s item?
Yes. Although it can be worn as an everyday accessory, it is especially appreciated by pin collectors, fountain pen enthusiasts and followers of the Kobe INK Monogatari collection.
Do the available colours change over time?
Yes. Nagasawa occasionally updates the available colour selection, so some versions may become difficult to find.
Can it be attached to clothing?
Yes. The fastening system allows it to be securely attached to jackets, shirts, bags, pen cases and similar accessories.
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History and Philosophy of the Brand
Nagasawa Bungu Center, founded in Kobe in 1882, is one of Japan’s historic stationery companies. Its catalogue combines writing culture, design and local identity, resulting in projects as distinctive as Kobe INK Monogatari, a collection inspired by the colours and landscapes of Kobe.
These pins represent a natural extension of that philosophy, transforming some of the collection’s most recognisable colours into small collectible objects that allow enthusiasts to carry a piece of Kobe beyond the world of writing.
"Some colours remain on paper. Others travel with us wherever we go."
