Montblanc Honors The Legacy Of Jane Austen With Latest Writers Edition Collection
Tipping its quill toward the iconic British author, the luxury label has released several new limited-edition writing instruments inspired by the life and legacy of Jane Austen.
With four unique new models that comprise the label's latest Writers Edition collection, Montblanc celebrates the life and legacy of the legendary author, Jane Austen. Through the addition of intricate detailing, memorable vibrant colorways, and standout design motifs, the collection is imbued with the essence of Jane Austen—both in her most famous literary works and characters, as well as her own spirit as a significant historical figure.
The pens in the Maison's Writer's Homage to Jane Austen weave together themes of travel, nature, countryside, and dance that were overtly present in her own life and iconic mainstays of her writing.
Each writing instrument in the collection possesses unique details that reflect elements of the author's life, all while maintaining Montblanc's signature luxury quality.
As a writer who lived in the English countryside for much of her life, nature was a major influence on Austen's life and works. Many of the most pivotal scenes in her novels—think the famous scenes between Emma and Mr. Knightley and Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy—take place outdoors in the splendor of the rolling green fields of the English highlands. The limited edition writing instrument from the collection draws inspiration from the Hampshire style of architecture—the region from which Austen hails—which can be seen in the column motif on the exterior of the writing instrument.
Meanwhile, the dark blue cap of the pen evokes the similarly-hued style of dress worn by men of means, such as Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, in recognition of another of the author's most famous novels. The pen also features opulent touches, like a yellow gold nib, inscribed with a portrait of Austen, and a weighted, decorative cap top.
The 1813 limited edition writing instrument draws on Pride and Prejudice as its main source of inspiration. Dedicated fans of the novel will notice that the name of the pen itself calls back to the year in which the famous work was published. Aside from its most prominent homage to the beloved novel, the pen is also packed with references to Austen’s home in Chawton, where she lived in a picturesque countryside abode, surrounded by elegant Regency and Victorian-era objects, including a precious piano—an instrument that has also found its way into nearly every Austen novel.
With floral-patterned engravings, mother-of-pearl details, and luxuriant hornbeam wood additions, the pen at once represents Austen’s appreciation for all things aesthetically pleasing as well as her lifelong passion for writing.
While other writing instruments in the collection utilize Austen’s home as an enduring fountain of inspiration, the limited edition 97 pen and its design revolves around Austen’s appreciation of travel and its representations in her works. Detailing on the barrel of the pen mimics the wavy, natural appearance of horse hair, while a solid gold addition weaving up the sides of the instrument recalls a horse’s harness.
The cap is crafted from buttery soft, luxurious English cowhide leather, reminding holders of both the countryside where Austen often traveled through, as well as the saddles atop horses that facilitated cross-country travel.
In the final model introduced as part of the collection, the limited edition 8 pen uses the tradition of dancing and balls from Austen’s time period. From vibrant gowns to candlelit salons to passionate exchanges between lovers, balls were a hugely influential part of life for women in the 18th and 19th centuries.
A ball is featured in every Austen novel in some capacity, with famous scenes like Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s first meeting as a prime example featured in the pen’s design. The barrel of the writing instrument also references the dress and attire of attendees, reflected in the delicate lace motif, floral emblems, and jewel inlays—that reference Austen’s birth month—shimmering throughout the body of the instrument.
For avid fans of the acclaimed author or longtime devotees of Montblanc, the label's latest collection is now available to peruse online.