Each of these pens exploits the Hira-maki-e technique, a process where very fine gold dust and pigment is sprinkled over wet urushi resin. The deep black lacquer background forms a base for these applied colors.

The straight-line graphics of folded paper lend themselves well to this hard-edged display of color and shape. The stylized wind, made up of silver curved lines and golden sprinkles, blows past the whirling kabuto. This is a pen to brighten the mood and heighten the spirits.