Fountain Pens

What is a Foutain Pen?

A fountain pen is a type of writing instrument that utilizes a metal nib to apply fountain pen ink to a writable surface, usually paper. There are a few components to most, if not every, fountain pen: a nib, ink reservoir, feed, grip section, cap, and barrel.

The invention of an ink-holding pen dates back to over 1000 years ago, when there was demand for an pen that wouldn't leak when held upside down. New developments continued throughout the 17 & 18 century as innovations in nib construction and ink reservoirs were made. These writing devices remained largerly obscure until the 19 century, when they became mass-produced through cheap & effective means. After the addition of self-fillers, the use of hard rubber (later celluloid), leak prevention, iridium nib tipping, and consistent ink flow, fountain pens became popular worldwide. Literary competence was granted among those who perviously couldn't afford to write. Fountain pens reached the height of their popularity in the 1900's until modern ballpoint pens rendered them obsolete. Today, fountain pens are seen as a status symbol and are seldomly used casually.