A fudepen (筆ペン) is a Japanese writing instrument. It consists of a brush-like pen nib with a refillable or replaceable ink reservoir that writes like a Chinese ink brush. The ink used is unlike traditional calligraphy ink. It is designed to adhere well to modern paper, while traditional ink only adheres well to rice paper. (Wikipedia).

Traditionally although fountain pens and other pens are widely used in Japan, most households will still possess a fude and a fude will continue to be used as long as Kana are employed as the written representation of the Japanese language. Handwriting still ranks as a fine art in Japan which is perhaps why they also take such pride and care in their stationery products. A fude is made of a bunch of hairs of a rabbit , badger or other animal bound together and inserted into a bamboo or wooden handle. They vary in shape and size.

In the modern stationery culture fude pens are now used by artists as well. Fude Pens can offer a viable alternative to standard calligraphy pens. Looking for a fude pen in the UK? Why not try Cult Pens for all your fude pen needs (and don’t forget to check back in for the letter T…).

Why not share your view in the comments – is handwriting a fine art or a lost art?

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