The Orient Express is a fascinating setting for intrigue and espionage, not only in fiction but also in real life. High Artistry A Journey on the Orient Express Limited Edition 1 Papillon tells the story of spy Robert Baden-Powell, who poses as a naturalist and encodes secret information into drawings of butterflies.
Crafted in gold, diamonds and rubies, the pen evokes Baden-Powell’s fascinating travels with a butterfly motif adorning the centre of the barrel. The butterfly shapes, both realistic and abstract, are brought to life using an enamelling technique called plique-à-jour. The pen’s translucent, brightly coloured enamel inlays reminiscent of stained glass add to the uniqueness of the model.
The vibrant butterfly is held in a glass door on the pen body. When opened, the colorful wings spread out, leaving a lasting impression on those who admire it. Furthering the spy story, the top of the pen cap is a large ruby, which opens to reveal a miniature clock underneath, while a small wheel on the side activates the writing instrument's ink filling mechanism.
The butterfly that adorns this edition reflects a level of craftsmanship on par with the historic works of decorative arts that visionary glass designer René Lalique created for the Orient Express. Hidden beneath the wings is an engraving resembling the enemy fortifications that Lord Baden-Powell hid in his butterfly drawings.
The shape of the Montblanc High Artistry A Journey on the Orient Express Limited Edition 1 Papillon mimics the shape of the Orient Express train cars. Together with the limited editions, this pen has created an extremely wonderful collection that Montblanc has just launched.
Translated & compiled by: Genuine Pen
Information: Montblanc.com
Photo source: Montblanc.com
