A journey through the evolution of writing instruments and their artistic legacy is showcased in the exhibition, “Journey through the Pen: From the Culture of Imperial Examinations to the Art of Modern Fountain Pens,” currently on display at the Temple of Literature in Hanoi.
Le Xuan Kieu, Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam, offers insight into the exhibition’s theme: “The brush pen and inkstone are iconic symbols of ancient scholars, representing not just tools for knowledge but also embodying perseverance, determination, and a reverence for the power of words. This exhibition celebrates the continuation of that spirit into the modern era.”
The fountain pen, a descendant of the brush pen, has become an enduring symbol of connecting people to knowledge, culture, and their inner selves. While the brush pen was once synonymous with royal examinations, the fountain pen has carved its niche in preserving thoughts, memories, and emotions in a way that digital alternatives struggle to replicate.
“Through this exhibition, we aim to honor the timeless beauty of handwriting culture and emphasize the continued importance of writing in our modern lives,” Kieu added. “Elegant handwriting reflects one’s soul, personality, and respect for knowledge, transcending time and generations, from the brush pen of ancient scholars to the fountain pens of today.”
The event serves as a powerful reminder to cherish and promote this rich tradition, especially as handwriting risks being overshadowed by technological advancements. Each stroke, whether made with a brush or a fountain pen, becomes a link between the past and the future, connecting knowledge, souls, and people across time.
The exhibition, held on December 7, showcased an array of unique pens, from world-renowned collector brands to the humble yet significant Hong Ha fountain pen collection, Vietnam’s first pen factory. It inspired attendees, particularly the younger generation, to appreciate and preserve the art of handwriting in an increasingly digital world.
The exhibition featured diverse areas, including a Calligraphy Exhibition, Sketching with Fountain Pens, and a showcase of renowned fountain pen collections. Visitors had the opportunity to delve into the refined world of fountain pens, explore calligraphy, and rediscover the value of handwriting through workshops such as the Canh Dieu Calligraphy Workshop, the Concopens Lacquer Workshop, and the Sino-Nom Calligraphy Workshop, each offering unique artistic experiences.
| Le Xuan Kieu, Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam (second from left), and distinguished guests immerse themselves in the exhibition. Photos: Thuy Nga/The Hanoi Times |
| Â An array of fountain pens on display, showcasing the variety and elegance of writing instruments. |
| Â A visitor appreciates the intricate beauty of calligraphic artworks, showcasing the art that can be created with a simple pen. |
| Â Fountain pens are not just writing instruments but also tools for creating artistic masterpieces, as evidenced by these stunning paintings. |
| Â Visitors try their hand at lacquer painting on fountain pens, blending artistic expression with the functionality of writing instruments. |
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