Tamenuri is an ancient traditional Urushi technique. “Kuro-beni” translates to reddish black or blackish red.
The Tamenuri technique utilizes a layering technique where a translucent Suki Urushi is applied to the special base coating, resulting in a unique deep patina which will naturally lighten and mature with use over time.
In Japan, “kuro-beni’ was commonly used as a base colour for expensive kosode (short-sleeved kimono) in the early Edo period. “Kuro-beni” is also cited in the novel “Yorozu no Fumi Hougu” by Ihara Saikaku, a famous writer of the Edo period.
The “Kuro-beni” Tamenuri artist, Kosyu Nishihara has hand-painted his signature and serial numbers on each pen barrel. Each pen comes equipped with Sailor’s legendary bi-colour 21k gold nib (M and B).
