The Japanese archipelago stretches over 3,800 kilometers in a narrow arc from the northeast to the southwest . During the months of March through May the cherry blossom trees bloom like a wave from the south sweeping to the north in what is known as the Sakura Blossom Front. Joy abounds, as people recognize that spring is approaching. The Sakura or cherry blossom is designated as Japan's national flower. Historically however, in the Nara era (710 - 794) the influence of Chinese culture was very strong. During this time many people admired the Ume or plum blossom that came from China.
In the "Manyoshu" (a collection of poems compiled in 759), it is said that there are 119 poems dedicated to the Ume and was the most frequently chosen topic. By contrast, poems dedicated to the Sakura only numbered 47. As time passed the customer of sending envoys to China to gain outside knowledge and culture was abolished in the Heian era (794 - 1185) and as the influence of the Chinese court diminished Japan developed its own culture. As a result, the Sakura which is native to Japan started to gain great favor. In the "Kokinwakashu" (905) another collection of poems, of the 134 poems dedicated to spring over 100 featured the Sakura blossom.
The Sakura blossoms in full bloom were greatly admired prior to the advent the Bushi Samurai warrior. However, the Sakura became to be linked to the Bushido spirit of chivalry (being willing to die for the Lord they served), and the moment when the petals fall with a decisive grace came to be greatly praised and valued. There are numerous famous location throughout Japan where people go to view, the Sakura in bloom. On the international scene the Sakura tree s along the Potomac river in Washington D.C. are very famous. These trees were brought from Japan when they were just saplings in the beginning of the 20th century.
You can experience the beauty of the Sakura in the limited edition Namiki Sakura fountain pen. The Namiki Sakura features a base coating of vermilion urushi lacquer, and on this a depicting a Sakura flower motif. The motif is made using the cut gold and silver technique and the hollowed inlay technique - called "Hyomon". In this technique "Raden" a pink/red abalone shell is selected and carved into thin strips to the shape of individual flower petals. They are carefully arranged in place alternating with petals made of gold and silver. This petal motif is coated with several layers of vermilion urushi lacquer and then it is ground and polished to expose the Sakura petals on the lacquer base. The Namiki Sakura pen changes its brilliant gloss according to the viewed angle. At certain angles you can experience the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Line#: JHC
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER FOR INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS:
If the item is being shipped outside the United States of America, we are not responsible for the duties and taxes you must pay your government to receive the item. Please check with your country's customs office to determine these additional costs prior to purchasing.
Please do not ask us to misrepresent the selling price of your purchase for a lower amount. To ensure both buyer and seller protection, we will list the actual eBay selling price, which is consistent with both eBay Policy and in compliance with standard Customs Declaration procedures.
If choosing to use the USPS Priority Mail shipping service outside of the U.S please be advised; it has been our experience that during the Holiday Seasons and depending on your country's Postal Service, it can take up to a month or more for delivery of your package. The tracking capability is limited compared to the more expensive alternative UPS. If time is of the essence we would recommend UPS.
International shipping exclusions apply, please check the shipping and payments section to learn if your country falls under these exclusions.
For additional shipping services and rates, please contact us.
We have successfully been in business for 45 Years and take great pride in our customer service. If you have any questions or just simply want to talk about pens, do not hesitate to contact us!
We are available by Monday - Friday from 10:00am - 5:00pm MST.
We check our eBay messages daily and will respond as quickly as possible!
