ConCoPens Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer Fountain Pen - Pyre

The ConCoPens Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer Fountain Pen - Pyre is a dramatic expression of fire, contrast, and traditional lacquer artistry. Set against a deep black lacquer foundation, vivid crimson veining travels across the cap and barrel like glowing embers beneath polished stone. Carefully placed mother-of-pearl accents add flashes of green, blue, violet, and silver, creating the impression of sparks breaking through the darkness.

Pyre does not depict flame literally. Instead, it captures the feeling of heat, movement, and transformation through layered lacquer, organic red patterning, and iridescent shell. The result is a fountain pen that feels bold and atmospheric while still preserving the refined silhouette and handcrafted character that define ConCoPens.

Craftsmanship & Design

Pyre is handcrafted using traditional Vietnamese lacquer techniques over a natural wood core. Multiple layers of natural lacquer are applied, cured, and polished by hand, gradually building the depth, gloss, and visual complexity that distinguish true lacquer work from ordinary painted finishes.

The red veining creates an energetic contrast against the black lacquer, resembling molten cracks, glowing coals, or lightning-like strands of heat. Mother-of-pearl accents are embedded near the cap and barrel transitions, adding cool iridescence against the fiery crimson tones. These shell elements appear suspended within the lacquer rather than placed on top of it, giving the design dimensionality and depth.

Because the lacquer patterning and shell placement are completed by hand, each Pyre fountain pen carries subtle individual variation. That individuality is part of the appeal for enthusiasts who value handcrafted finishes over perfectly repeated industrial decoration.

Vietnamese Lacquer vs. Japanese Urushi

One of the most common questions surrounding ConCoPens is how Vietnamese lacquer compares to Japanese Urushi. Both are considered true Asian lacquers derived from natural tree sap and have been used for centuries to create decorative objects of exceptional beauty and durability.

Japanese Urushi is produced from the sap of the lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, and contains a natural compound called urushiol. Vietnamese lacquer originates from the sap of the Vietnamese lacquer tree, Toxicodendron succedaneum, and is primarily composed of a related compound known as laccol. Although chemically distinct, both lacquers undergo a similarly demanding process of repeated application, controlled curing, and hand polishing to achieve their remarkable depth and luster.

Because the trees belong to the same botanical family, individuals with known sensitivities to urushi should understand that Vietnamese lacquer cannot be considered inherently hypoallergenic. However, once fully cured, both lacquers become extraordinarily durable finishes prized for their resistance and longevity.

Vietnamese lacquer is not a simplified version of Japanese Urushi, nor is it an imitation of it. Rather, it represents its own rich artistic tradition with a particular emphasis on layered color, luminous depth, and decorative techniques such as shell inlay. The affordability of many Vietnamese lacquer pens generally reflects differences in workshop scale, labor economics, and market positioning rather than any reduction in craftsmanship or authenticity.

Writing Experience

Pyre is designed to function as both an artisan object and a practical writing instrument. The natural wood construction keeps the pen comfortable in hand, while the polished lacquer surface provides a smooth, warm tactile quality that feels distinct from acrylic or metal-bodied pens.

The pen is fitted with a German-made gold-plated JoWo #6 stainless steel nib, a widely respected nib platform known for consistency, smoothness, and reliability. Available in Fine and Medium widths, the JoWo #6 nib delivers controlled ink flow and dependable performance for journaling, correspondence, and everyday writing. Filling is handled by the included Schmidt piston converter, allowing the use of bottled fountain pen inks with straightforward maintenance.

Brand Heritage

ConCoPens was founded to introduce traditional Vietnamese lacquer artistry to modern fountain pen enthusiasts. By adapting techniques associated with lacquer paintings, decorative objects, and heirloom craftwork, the brand creates writing instruments that preserve Vietnam's artistic heritage while remaining practical tools for daily use.

Pyre reflects this philosophy through its layered natural lacquer, fiery visual language, mother-of-pearl accents, and dependable German-made writing system. It offers enthusiasts a compelling bridge between regional craftsmanship and contemporary fountain pen design.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: ConCoPens
• Collection: Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer
• Model: Pyre
• Body Material: Hand-applied Vietnamese natural lacquer with mother-of-pearl accents over a natural wood core
• Trim: Gold-tone
• Nib Material: Gold-Plated JoWo #6 Stainless Steel Nib
• Available Nib Sizes: Fine or Medium
• Filling System: Cartridge/Converter
• Converter Included: Schmidt Piston Converter
• Cap Type: Threaded Cap
• Country of Origin: Vietnam