The Carl Linnaeus is the nineteenth in the David Oscarson™ series of Limited Edition writing instruments. Produced in three primary color variations, each limited to an aggregate production of 70 pieces (including fountain pens and roller balls), the Linnaeus Collection will stand as a lasting tribute to the seventy years of Carl von Linné’s work and his enduring worldwide influence.
The plant and floral elements of this Limited Edition are a reminder of the great scientist’s love for nature. Inspired by his numerous great works, this one-of-a-kind collection features multiple levels of guilloché engraving and seven colors of Hot Enamel.
The Carl Linnaeus Collection continues in the spirit of artistic mastery and the tradition of Old World craftsmanship by combining the centuries-old technique of Guilloché with the art and expertise of Hard Enamel.
Using a mortar and pestle, a composition of glass, water and metal oxides is ground for hours by hand. When settled, the water is removed, leaving the fine paste that is the basis for hard enamel. A quill is then used to apply each coat of the mixture to the surface of the metal, ensuring that the entire guilloché area is completely covered in enamel. The components are then fired in a furnace at temperatures exceeding 1,000° F, fusing the enamel to the metal and forming a layer of glass.
After cooling, the pieces are manually ground with a diamond file, restoring their proper shape and surface. This tedious process is repeated at length until the level of enamel reaches the depth required to cover the peaks and fill the valleys of each intricate guilloché pattern. When the final stages of firing are completed, the pieces are polished and buffed, revealing the velvet finish of translucent hard enamel.
Production of translucent hard enamel demands the highest levels of patience, experience and skill. A five-year apprenticeship is required to ensure that the highest levels of quality will be met in each individual Collection piece.
Each David Oscarson Writing Instrument is available as a Fountain Pen in Fine, Medium, or Broad. It is also available as a Rollerball Pen or can be purchased as a convertible set to switch between the two writing modes.
