Tamenuri Studio x Esterbrook - Second Edition Urushi Esties
Created with Michal Kulka of Tamenuri Studio, these pens showcase kawarinuri urushi artistry with gold leaf and metallic pigments. Limited to six pieces and fitted with an 18 carat #6 nib, they embody Esterbrook’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and partnerships with master artisans—functional art at its finest.
NOTE: Due to the limited nature of this pen, the nibs provided are those we have in stock. No substitutions can be made.
Introducing Our Latest Collaboration with Tamenuri Studio
Esterbrook is honored to present the latest additions to our Estie Urushi collection: Gold Flames and Purple Flames, created in collaboration with Michal Kulka of Tamenuri Studio. These rare and breathtaking designs represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry, blending tradition with innovation to create pens that transcend function to become works of art.
A Master of Urushi Artistry
Michal Kulka, globally celebrated for his expertise in urushi lacquer work, has elevated this ancient Japanese art form to new heights. His meticulous process requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the materials, resulting in designs that are as durable as they are stunning. This collaboration with Esterbrook continues our commitment to fostering relationships with artisans of the highest caliber in the fine writing community.
About the Pens
Both the Gold Flames and Purple Flames designs are crafted using the kawarinuri technique, incorporating layers of textured urushi and precious metals to achieve their striking visual effects. Each pen is fitted with an 18 carat gold nib and uses a cartridge or converter to ink.
Gold Flames: This design features 23.5k gold leaf applied over textured urushi in multiple layers. The gold elements are sealed and separated with a blend of transparent kijiro and kuro-roiro urushi, then finished with a sleek layer of kuro-roiro lacquer. Sanding and polishing (migaki) bring out a flawless luster, creating a design that Michal himself describes as his best implementation of the gold flames motif to date.
Purple Flames: A similar structure is used, but with 14k “blue gold” leaf and metallic pigmented urushi, resulting in an even more dramatic effect. The metallic pigments create a mesmerizing depth, while the use of less gold leaf allows for an interplay of vibrant purple tones and shimmering accents that evoke the essence of flames.
An Exclusive Offering
These pens are as rare as they are extraordinary, with only six of this collection ever produced. Their exclusivity, combined with the painstaking labor required to create them, makes them a prized addition to any collection.
Celebrating a Special Partnership
The Estie Urushi Series 3 and 4 represent more than exquisite craftsmanship; they embody Esterbrook’s dedication to meaningful partnerships with artisans who share our values of quality, artistry, and innovation. Just as we’ve expanded into custom nib collaborations, this series reflects our commitment to elevating the writing experience into a true art form.
A Legacy in Writing
For those fortunate enough to own one of these rare pens, Gold Flames and Purple Flames are more than writing instruments—they are enduring symbols of creativity, collaboration, and the beauty of fine craftsmanship.
The Art of Urushi
Urushi, the ancient Japanese art of lacquerware, dates back over 9,000 years and represents a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Derived from the sap of the urushi tree, this material is applied in layers, each meticulously dried and polished to create a resilient, glass-like finish. The art form has been used to craft everything from functional tools to exquisite decorations, demonstrating durability and beauty that withstand the test of time.
Tamenuri Studios, led by Michal Kulka, reinterprets this venerable tradition in the modern context. Their intricate techniques, such as kawarinuri, incorporate textured layers of urushi with precious metals to create captivating visual effects. Collaborating with Esterbrook on the Estie Urushi Series, Tamenuri Studios pushes the boundaries of urushi artistry, blending heritage with contemporary design
Meet Michal Kulka
Hi, I’m Michal Kulka, an urushi craftsman originally from Poland, now based in France. For many years, I wore suits, managed companies, and negotiated deals—urushi lacquerwork wasn’t even on my radar. That all changed about eight years ago through my passion for fountain pens.
One pen, in particular, changed everything: a Nakaya Decapod Twist in kuro-tamenuri. It sparked an obsession with urushi that led me to study everything I could find—articles, videos, even scientific papers. Eventually, I ordered tools and lacquer from Japan and began experimenting. What started as curiosity grew into my life’s work.
Today, I handcraft urushi pens using Japanese ebonite and a variety of traditional techniques. Occasionally, I collaborate on special projects, like the Estie Urushi series with Esterbrook. This partnership reflects shared values of artistry, tradition, and innovation—qualities that make creating with them such a rewarding experience.
High-Quality Versatile Nibs
Esterbrook offers a wide array of high-quality nibs designed to suit every writing style, from smooth cursive to intricate calligraphy. Made from premium materials, these nibs are engineered for durability and precision, providing an unparalleled writing experience.