After the first edition in 2003, the Pen of the Year gained an exceptional position among connoisseurs of luxurious writing culture. As a limited edition, each edition tells the story of epochs and peoples whose deeds have shaped the history of humanity.

The pen of the year 2023 is inspired by one of the most fascinating advanced civilizations in the world: ancient Egypt, with its 3,000 years of history, its deities, stories, and achievements.

It invites you on a journey to the land of the pharaohs, the pyramids, and the papyrus – some 4,000 years before the turn of time.

A Tribute to Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt, with its rich tapestry of history, mythology, and culture, has captured the imagination of people for centuries. In 2023, Graf von Faber-Castell pays homage to this remarkable civilization with the release of their exclusive “Ancient Egypt” edition of the Pen of the Year.

Crown

The Pen of the Year 2023 takes inspiration from the distinctive shape of Nefertiti’s blue crown, known as ‘altiyjan,’ which is synonymous with her image. In ancient Egypt, headdresses held immense significance. Nefertiti’s tall cap-crown was a rarity, symbolizing her significant position of power, possibly equal to, if not surpassing, her husband Akhenaten.

Lotus

In ancient Egypt, the lotus symbolized regeneration and rebirth. Its unique feature, with petals closing at sunset and blooming with the sunrise, held great significance.

This delicate plant was not only an artistic motif but also a powerful hieroglyph associated with the gods. It graced alabaster vessels, adorned exquisite jewelry, and added elegance to columns and paintings, leaving an enduring mark on Egyptian culture.

Gold

Gold (nebu) wasn’t just a precious metal; it symbolized power and opulence. Only the pharaohs had the privilege of adorning themselves with this lavish element. Magnificent pieces of jewelry, tools, vessels, and even masks crafted from gold showcased Egypt as the ultimate land of gold in antiquity.

Hieroglyphs

Hieroglyphs, believed to be the oldest form of Egyptian writing, have bequeathed us with approximately 7,000 characters. Over more than 3,500 years, hieroglyphs served primarily for religious rituals and knowledge transmission across generations. This intricate writing system played a pivotal role in the evolution of ancient Egypt into an advanced civilization, facilitating governance over their vast territory.

Scarab

The Pen of the Year 2023 features a brilliant inlay of blue lapis lazuli with an engraved scarab on its end. In ancient Egypt, the scarab symbolized luck and was a protective emblem on amulets, seals, and coffins. It also represented the sun, symbolizing life and rebirth.

Pharaohs

Inspiration from the lavish world of pharaohs, particularly Tutankhamun’s iconic 12-kilogram mask. Its grip features exquisite gold and lapis lazuli stripes reminiscent of the pharaoh’s nemes headcloth.

Meticulously crafted 24-carat gold-plated metal rings and hand-painted blue rings evoke the grand headdresses exclusive to pharaohs.

Tutankhamun’s burial chamber, lined with pure gold, yielded numerous treasures when discovered in the Valley of the Kings in 1922, including his golden throne and chariot.

In closing, the Pen of the Year 2023 encapsulates the essence of ancient Egypt’s grandeur. From its divine symbolism to its opulent design, this pen is a gateway to a civilization’s rich history and culture.

As you use this extraordinary instrument, may it inspire you to write your own stories, bridging the gap between ancient Egypt and the modern world.

With every stroke, you carry forward the legacy of a remarkable civilization that has captivated hearts for millennia.