Namiki Yukari Royale Chinkin Royal Rooster Fountain pen

Among all writing instruments I’ve had the privilege of owning, few come close to the sheer artistry and emotional weight carried by the Namiki Royal Size “Fighting Roosters” fountain pen. Crafted using the meticulous Chinkin (gold-inlay) technique, this pen is not only a masterclass in Japanese craftsmanship but also a dynamic portrayal of movement, spirit, and tradition.

The design tells a story frozen in time — two majestic roosters locked in a dramatic duel. On the cap, one rooster stands tall on a single leg, feathers bristling with energy, poised in an offensive stance. Its eyes are sharply focused, ready to strike. On the barrel, the other rooster is depicted in a sweeping curve, evading the attack with grace and agility. The contrast between the two postures creates a sense of motion that makes the pen come alive in the hand. Each fine line — cut meticulously into the lacquer and filled with gold powder — brings out the texture of feathers, the sharpness of claws, and the tension in their forms. It’s not just decoration; it’s storytelling.

What makes this piece even more special is the identity of the artist behind it — Yasuji Sumi (signed as “康二”). As of next year, Sumi-san will be turning 70. He is one of the few remaining Kokkokai artisans who still earns the rare honor of signing his name on a Namiki pen. His decades of experience show in every stroke, every detail, and every decision made in bringing this composition to life. To own a pen from such a craftsman, especially one of his later works, feels like holding a piece of living history — a culmination of technique, spirit, and cultural legacy.