Bathed in the serenity of a moonlit night, shimmering rays dance across the lacquered surface—each a testament to craftsmanship and the quiet poetry of natural beauty. The Pelikan M1000 Raden “Moonlight” is a masterful creation that embodies the refined intersection of German precision and Japanese artistry, handcrafted by celebrated lacquer artisan Norio Matsuda.
Based on Pelikan’s flagship M1000 model, this limited edition masterpiece features hand-cut abalone shell (mother-of-pearl) fragments—selected for their iridescent luster—painstakingly arranged onto the barrel and cap. Each shell piece is meticulously placed by hand, producing a luminous effect that changes with the angle of light, evoking the glimmer of water under moonlight.
Multiple layers of black urushi lacquer are applied, followed by wiping, polishing, and burnishing to reveal the depth and nuance of the raden shellwork beneath. The result is a refined, meditative aesthetic that radiates quiet elegance.
With only 200 pens produced worldwide, each piece is individually handcrafted and finished over several months, underscoring the rarity and labor-intensive craftsmanship of this edition.
Norio Matsuda is a renowned Japanese lacquer artist specializing in raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) and maki-e (gold powder lacquer painting). With a career spanning decades, he has collaborated extensively with Pelikan on some of the brand’s most revered limited editions—including “Raden Moonlight,” “Raden Sunrise & Moonbeam,” “Phoenix,” and more.
Matsuda’s works are known for their exquisite detail, harmonious balance, and deep reverence for traditional Japanese artistry. Each piece reflects the precision and patience of a true master craftsman.
Brand| Pelikan
Model| M1000 Raden “Moonlight”
Nib| 18K gold, bi-color nib
Filling System| Piston-fill
Limited Edition| 200 pieces worldwide
Body| Abalone raden inlay with black urushi lacquer, handcrafted by Norio Matsuda
Includes| Original wooden presentation box, certificate of authenticity, documentation
As one of the few raden editions based on the M1000 body, “Moonlight” stands out in the Pelikan raden lineup for its scale, craftsmanship, and presence. With only 200 units ever made and very limited secondary market availability, this edition is highly coveted by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Please feel free to message us for additional photos, writing samples, or shipping arrangements.
A rare masterpiece—one that transcends function into art.