Montblanc High Artistry, A Celebration of the Taj Mahal
Montblanc has been pushing the boundaries of innovation ever since the Maison first revolutionized the culture of writing in 1906. Share
Pieces of fascinating beauty, Montblanc High Artistry editions bring together technical excellence and unrestrained creativity. Combining the many traditional skills honed over generations and today’s high precision and high technology tools, Montblanc artisans have succeeded in taking their craft beyond functionality and into the realm of fine artistry. Leaning into the rare métiers d’arts nurtured in Montblanc’s Ateliers, writing instruments are transformed into dazzling objets d’art that defy imagination.
Goldsmiths and gem-setters demonstrate artistry and virtuosity to create magnificent high jewellery pieces, achieving challenging shapes and embellishing each piece with brilliant stones. Paying homage to the traditions of fine craftsmanship, each edition draws from Montblanc’s rich heritage to articulate the story of great figures or cultural heritage sites. The new Montblanc High Artistry, A Celebration of the Taj Mahal Edition celebrates the rich artistic traditions of the Mughal dynasty in India and the influence of one of its most enlightened rulers, Shah Jahan.
Under the rule of the great emperor, Mughal art and architecture reached its zenith with the construction of the Taj Mahal of Agra. The monumental tomb was commissioned by the ruler as a declaration of love to his late wife Mumtaz who died in childbirth, and has become an enduring symbol of the magnificence of Indian culture.
The latest High Artistry edition evokes the opulence of Mughal ornament and jewellery making, and its influence on Western craftsmanship. The elaborate writing masterpieces are inspired by the brilliant regalia of the maharajas, meticulously set with sparkling stones to achieve a level of rarity and sophistication.
The Montblanc High Artistry, A Celebration of the Taj Mahal collection is made up of three different precious writing instruments, each limited to just one piece worldwide, making it one-of-a-kind. Many techniques have been used to bring to life the fascinating world of the Mughal from stone cutting and setting to hand engraving, enamelling and elaborate gold work. While materials and gemstones may be different from one edition to the next, each one features a slightly curved shape inspired by a traditional Mughal dagger, an insignia of power. The cap top is reminiscent of the dome of the Taj Mahal, built during the Golden Age of the Mughals.
The forepart of the pen features an intricate display of traditional Mughal decorations – India’s famous landmark. While the edition does not feature a clip, a peacock feather adorns the front of the writing instrument, a reference to the peacock throne made for Shah Jahan in the early 17th century. Featuring two open gilded peacock’s tails set with diamonds, rubies and other precious gemstones, it was regarded as one of the most magnificent throne ever made.
