Retro 51 Smithsonian Bijustukai Rollerball Pen

The design of this officially licensed Smithsonian Collection Retro 51 Tornado rollerball comes from the artwork of the Shin-Bijutsukai magazine published from 1901 to 1906 and now housed at the Smithsonian. Originating from the early Japanese pattern books of the 1660s, the magazine’s colorful and abstract designs reflected historical and technological shifts in Japanese society, influenced by Art Nouveau and Japonisme—the Western European fondness for a mediated Japanese aesthetic. Through its visually striking designs, Shin-Bijutsukai showcased a blend of timeless themes and innovative influences, positioning itself as a pioneering force in Japanese art and design during the early 20th century.