The minuscule chancery script
23 October 2024The term minuscule chancery script is used to describe the script, emerging between the late 13th and early 14th century, that was employed within chancery offices for the drafting of official documents, expressing the will of kings, emperors, popes, and bishops. The minuscule chancery script originated from the littera minuta cursiva (Casamassima), an Italian invention of diplomatic writing that became highly renowned and appreciated throughout Europe. With the spread of a private and secular educational system, the minuscule chancery script became the symbol of the cultured notarial class and was used for drafting texts in the vernacular, such as city chronicles or poetic compositions. While ecclesiastical or university texts continued to prefer the Gothic script, the oldest Italian literary texts we have evidence of are written in minuscule chancery script, including at least forty manuscripts of Dante Alighieri’s works and the Chigian Canzoniere of Italian lyric poetry. Petrarch contributed to the abandonment of Gothic script in Italy, advocating, along with Boccaccio, for a new writing style based on the recovery of the “ancient.” Petrarch’s texts are therefore penned in minuscule chancery script, an elegant writing style with few ligatures and abbreviations, making it highly legible, characterized by delicate contrast and generous spacing. Later, the author developed a form of writing that for a long time was credited to him as an invention, which we now call “semi-Gothic.” This would significantly contribute to the spread of classical culture and the birth of the Florentine Renaissance. The Littera Minuta Cursiva Between the late 12th and early 13th centuries, there was a graphic transformation of the Carolingian minuscule (the reference script of Charlemagne’s reign) that led to the birth of the littera minuta cursiva. The demand for document production increased exponentially with the rise of new national and regional states, making the role of the notary of fundamental importance within medieval society. Parchment, which was very expensive and mainly used for the drafting of books, was replaced by the more economical paper, an excellent medium for preliminary drafting of documents. The standardization of notarial writing, the variety of abbreviations, and especially the spread of vernacular literature contributed to the development of this new script. The littera minuta cursiva is characterized by its pronounced roundness, forming letter connections with a reverse motion known as counterclockwise or “sinistral” (Costamagna). This innovative hand movement is the opposite of the motion that had previously characterized Roman cursive scripts, which ended their tracing “with a stroke upwards or towards the right center” and “almost all opened with a movement from bottom to top.” This script is also marked by the presence of numerous “hooks” in the entrance and exit strokes of individual letters, the extension of the last stroke of i, m, and n downward when they appear at the end of a word, the use of figures executed in a single stroke for speed, such as the cursive a (preferred over the uncial type), and finally, the doubling of the vertical stroke of f,p, and s. Due to the frequent movements of chancery personnel in the late Middle Ages, it is not possible to confirm the sharing of a single model of writing for document drafting, but we can affirm that the *minuta cursiva* began spreading in all chancery offices during those years, especially in papal (Alexander III, Innocent III, Honorius II) and imperial (registers of Frederick II) administrations. Throughout the 13th century, the minuta cursiva extended to municipal and podestà offices. The vertical strokes began to incline to the left and lengthened compared to the central body of the letters in a 3:1 ratio. The hook of ascending and descending strokes elongated and flattened increasingly, foreshadowing what would later become the typical “flag loop” of the minuscule chancery script. The Scriptio continua (a script without word separation) was entirely abandoned in favor of greater legibility, accentuating the variants of letters at the beginning and end of words (e.g., the two *s*) and minimizing abbreviations. Despite its pronounced roundness, this type of writing generally shows a certain Gothic taste, typical of the time, characterized by broken movements. The pen used for tracing the *minuta cursiva* was the same broad-nib pen of the *textualis* Gothic script, with which it also shared the chiaroscuro effect (the difference in thickness between thick and thin strokes) and its broken and oval curves rather than rounded and regular ones. The Minuscule Chancery Script At the end of the 13th century, the *minuta cursiva* reached its mature form and became the official script of the Papal chanceries (such as that of Boniface VIII). By the early 14th century, the term “Italian chancery script” was finally coined, as it became the most commonly used script for drafting documents (both administrative codes and vernacular texts), epistles, and municipal documents produced by the new social classes, such as notaries, judges, and merchants (who would later develop their own script, the *mercantesca*). Francesco Petrarca himself used it in his preparatory manuscript for the *Rerum vulgarium fragmenta*. Read more by checking out the full article at https://scardillo.com/blog/la-minuscola-cancelleresca/ and by booking your Calligraphy course at Pineider. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Pineider and the best gifts for travelers
4 June 2024When it comes to gifts, there’s something extraordinarily rewarding about finding the perfect present that reflects the soul and passions of the recipient. Especially for travel enthusiasts, the choice becomes even more intriguing. Travel is not just about moving from one place to another; it involves experiences intertwined with emotions, memories, and discoveries. An original gift for a travel lover is more than just a material item: it is a companion for adventures, a catalyst for new experiences, and a tangible reminder of incredible journeys, past and yet to come. In this article, we will explore the wide range of travel gifts offered by Pineider, showcasing a collection that is not just an assortment of products, but a celebration of the art of travel. From leather accessories to duffle bags, trolleys, diaries and luxury pens, the brand offers a universe of options to make every journey a timeless experience. Here’s how to transform a gift into an unforgettable memory, imbued with style, elegance, and an everlasting desire to explore. Pineider and the best gifts for travelers Pineider is synonymous with delicacy and refinement, capturing the essence of exploration in every product it creates. The bond between Pineider and travel is a deep commitment, rooted in Italian tradition and values inspired by innovation and outstanding craftsmanship. The brand has managed to create a range of items that not only meet the practical needs of travelers but also stand as a testament to a lifestyle steeped in adventure. Every meticulously crafted detail becomes a link in the chain that connects the users to their next destination, stimulating curiosity and fueling the passion for exploration. Holding a Pineider product feels like opening a window to a world of endless possibilities. The brand offers much more than simple objects: it provides the opportunity to embrace the world with grace and taste. Whether it’s a distinguished bag, a fine notebook or a rare pen, each item is an invitation to explore the world with fresh eyes, with unmistakable originality and a touch of delicacy only Pineider can guarantee. Leather accessories, among the gifts for those who love to travel When embarking on a journey, organization is key and Pineider leather accessories are designed to elevate the comfort and the elegance of the experience. Imagine walking through the airport with a passport holder that not only protects your most important document but also reflects your distinctive style. Pineider passport holders, like the calfskin one from the Mini-Franzi Collection, are available in a variety of designs and embody the perfect fusion of practicality and aesthetics. To further distinguish yourself during your travels, Pineider luggage tag adds a touch of sophistication to your suitcase. Crafted with artisanal care and available in captivating design, this tag is not just a practical tool for identifying your luggage but becomes a distinctive sign of your love for trends even on the move. Lastly, for those who do not want to give up carrying a small oasis of luxury at all times, Pineider beauty case is the perfect accessory, like the hammered calfskin one from the Grained Collection. Made with fine materials and exclusive details, this beauty case not only keeps your cosmetics and toiletries organized but also turns your daily routine into a moment of sumptuousness. Together, these travel leather accessories are faithful companions for those who seek a balance between impeccable functionality and a touch of class. Looking for a travel-themed gift? Discover Pineider duffles and trolleys If you want to travel with practicality, Pineider duffles and trolleys are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding travelers and represent the perfect fusion of sophisticated design and reliable performance. Pineider travel duffles are conceived for those looking for a spacious option without compromising on elegance. Made with high-quality materials and finished with meticulous details, like the Cabin Duffle from the Embossed Empress Collection: they are the ideal choice for those who wish to combine the practicality of ample and versatile space with timeless sobriety. If your itinerary requires a more structured and spacious solution, Pineider travel trolleys are designed to offer durability, lightness, and, of course, unmistakable beauty. With sliding wheels and ergonomic handles like the unparalleled Trolley from the Mini-Franzi Collection, these trolleys transform movements into an effortless experience, ensuring that your personality never has to compromise for practicality. Lastly, Pineider Travel Bags are a must-have for travelers who appreciate vintage style and the atmosphere of the past, like the Passion Suitcase Medium Grained. Whether you’re heading out for a romantic weekend or an international business trip, the duffles and trolleys are among the most useful gifts for those who love to travel, offering a harmonious balance between functionality and timeless style. Diaries and notebooks: what to give to those who like to travel For those who love to travel with personality and impeccable organization, diaries and notebooks are essential allies. These classy and functional tools embody the brand commitment to quality and artisanal care, offering a sophisticated way to capture the special moments of your travels and keep track of your goals. Pineider diaries are designed to fit every lifestyle and tour. Made with fine leather or canvas covers, detailed with refined finishes, these diaries are more than just a simple planning tool; they are a tangible expression of your sophisticated taste. The variety of formats and designs, including the 2024 Weekly Diary Milano, allows you to find the perfect tool to accompany your travels, whether for business or exploratory adventures. Pineider notebooks, on the other hand, are an invitation to capture the beauty of the places you visit and the ideas that arise during the tour. With high-quality pages and covers that reflect the distinctive harmony of the brand, these notebooks are the ideal accessory for writers and explorers. Whether they are small pocket notebooks or elegant travel journals like the Jazz Notebook made with rigenerated leather, each is designed to offer an unparalleled writing experience. Additionally, Pineider offers a selection of luxury pens, the
Rollerball or Ballpoint Pen? Differences and Which to Choose
22 May 2024Choosing between a rollerball pen and a ballpoint pen is not a trivial decision, as it means selecting the tool you will use to write your daily story. The feeling of a pen between your fingers becomes an extension of your personality, a statement of style, and a means through which your ideas take shape. In this article, we will explore the differences between rollerball and ballpoint pens and the features that make them unique. The Difference Between Rollerball and Ballpoint Pens Let’s delve into the key differences between rollerball and ballpoint pens. Each category of writing instruments has its own distinct appeal, reflected in their writing mechanisms, the type of ink used, cost and adaptability to the specific needs of the user. Writing Mechanism: Rollerball pens have a water-based or gel ink delivery system that offers remarkable fluidity and consistency in writing. On the other hand, ballpoint pens, with their spherical rotation mechanism, provide a more direct and straightforward ink application. Ink Type: Rollerball pens can use a wide range of inks, including gel and water-based, offering a color variety that emphasizes the personality of the writer. Conversely, ballpoint pens typically use oil-based ink, ensuring long-lasting and resilient writing. Both types can be refilled with high-quality Pineider refills. Cost and Intended Use: Ballpoint pens are often chosen for their affordable cost and widespread availability. Among all pen types, they are the most efficient for everyday use without specific needs. Rollerball pens, however, can be considered an investment if you are looking for a more sophisticated stroke and a broad spectrum of inks. Examining these fundamental differences will give you a global overview of what to expect from each type of pen and help you make an informed choice that aligns with your style and preferences. Advantages of Rollerball Pens When it comes to distinctive advantages, rollerball pens emerge as the ideal option for elegance and precision in writing. Let’s closely examine some of the reasons why lovers of written expression appreciate these extraordinary travel companions. Writing Quality: Thanks to their ink delivery mechanism, these pens offer a smooth and consistent stroke. Each mark will be a pleasant experience, without interruptions or uncertainties, transforming every word into a statement of style. Variety of Inks: From the luminous shades of gel to the rich tones of water-based options, enthusiasts will have a wide range of choices. This variety allows you to personalize your writing experience based on mood, context, or simply your preference at the moment. Analyzing these benefits, it becomes clear why rollerball pens represent the optimal alternative for those seeking superior writing performance. Quality and versatility combine, offering a composition experience that goes beyond the simple act of writing. Advantages of Ballpoint Pens While rollerball pens dominate for their elegance, the top ballpoint pens from Pineider emerge as the most pragmatic and reliable solution. Let’s carefully examine why ballpoint pens are such a widespread and appreciated choice. Affordable Cost: Ballpoint pens are widely available at reasonable prices, making them a convenient choice for anyone wanting to enjoy quality writing without breaking the bank. The accessibility of ballpoint pens makes them perfect companions for your daily activities. Durability and versatility: built to stand the test of time, they are ready to follow you wherever you go. Their adaptability to different types of paper makes them versatile and comfortable for all situations, from the workplace to personal transcription. Rollerball or Ballpoint? Which to Choose Both options, rollerball and ballpoint pens, boast distinctive features that meet different needs. The final choice largely depends on your personal preferences, style and intended use. If you are looking for smoother writing, a wide variety of inks and if you are willing to invest a bit more, the rollerball pen could be your inseparable companion. Conversely, if you value practicality, durability and a more accessible price, ballpoint pens will be your most trusty allies in your daily composition. Regardless of your choice, whether you opt for the fluidity of the rollerball or the practicality of the ballpoint, both will accompany you in every word and every signature, adding a personal touch to every thought etched on paper. Conclusion In conclusion, deciding between a rollerball and a ballpoint pen is a subjective decision that depends on your needs and preferences. Both offer unique advantages: now that you’ve explored the differences and benefits of each, you’re ready to make an informed selection. Whether you love composing or simply seek a reliable tool for your daily routine, you’ll find the perfect one among Pineider luxury pens. Express your style and dive into your tailored writing experience with the best tools! Aggiungi ai preferiti
How to Refill Your Ballpoint Pen
11 April 2024Ballpoint pens are timeless writing instruments, synonymous with style and practicality. Their versatility makes them perfect for all occasions, from jotting down quick reminders to penning lengthy letters. However, to achieve maximum performance and fully utilize their potential, it is crucial to know how to properly refill a ballpoint pen. Below, you’ll find all the tips to keep your writing tool always ready to capture your most important thoughts. Choosing the Right Nib for Ballpoint Pen Refills Selecting the right nib is a crucial and personalized step that directly impacts your writing experience. To refill your ballpoint pen without errors, consider several factors that play a decisive role, including line thickness, ink type, and the overall durability of the nib. Line Thickness: If you prefer finer lines that allow for precise and detailed writing, opt for an extra-fine or fine nib. If you favor thicker, bolder strokes, a wider, medium nib might be the ideal choice, adding a distinctive touch to your handwriting. Ink Type: Ballpoint nibs offer a wide range of options, including water-based, gel, or oil-based inks. Each has unique characteristics that influence the fluidity of writing, drying time, and water resistance. Durability: A high-quality nib might last longer, ensuring smooth writing over time. Consider how frequently you use your ballpoint pen and select a nib that suits your lifestyle, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. In short, choosing the right nib is a process that combines personal style and practical functionality. Take the time to explore the available options: your ballpoint pen will thus be personalized according to your preferences, transforming every writing moment into a unique and rewarding experience. Preparing Your Workspace for Ballpoint Pen Refill Preparing your workspace is essential for a smooth ballpoint pen refill. By following a few practical tips, you can ensure an efficient and trouble-free refill process. Start by ensuring you have all the necessary tools within reach. These might include the new refill, a soft cloth, a sheet of paper, or a napkin, depending on your preferences. If your ballpoint pen requires a light cleaning before refilling, use the cloth to remove any ink residue from the nib. This ensures a free and even flow during subsequent writing. Place your ballpoint pen on a stable and clean surface. Avoid uneven or sloped surfaces to prevent the risk of falls or accidental movements. The surface should be free from obstacles that could interfere with the flow of the refill. To prevent unwanted ink stains, protect the work surface with a sheet of paper or a napkin. In summary, preparing your workspace is a critical step: ensure you have all the necessary tools, create a clean and organized environment, and protect the work surface to prevent unwanted stains. By following these tips, your ballpoint pen will always be ready for impeccable writing. How to Refill a Ballpoint Pen The crucial moment of inserting the new refill requires precision and attention to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted ink flow. Follow these steps to correctly insert the refill into your ballpoint pen: Check the Nib Type: Before starting, make sure you know the type of nib of your ballpoint pen. Some ballpoint pens have a screw-top, while others require a simple insertion. This information will be crucial for the correct placement of the refill. Ensure the Pen is Empty: Before proceeding with the new refill, ensure that the pen is completely out of ink. This will avoid confusion or contamination with different types of ink. Precisely Position the Refill: If your ballpoint pen requires insertion via a screw-top, position the new refill and gently rotate it clockwise until it is fully screwed in. If your pen requires direct insertion, make sure the refill is properly placed in its housing. Avoid Forcing: Be careful not to push the refill too hard into the pen. A proper installation should be smooth and effortless. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your ballpoint pen manufacturer. Wait a Few Moments: After insertion, wait before using the pen. This allows the ink to flow properly towards the nib, ensuring uniform writing from the first use. Ballpoint Pen Refill: Function Check and Maintenance Once the new refills for ballpoint pens are inserted, it’s time to ensure they function perfectly. Follow these steps: Test on a Sheet of Paper: Write on a sheet of paper to check that the ink flow is smooth and uninterrupted. Fluid and regular writing is a sign of a successful refill insertion. Examine the Nib: Look closely at the nib in the light to ensure there are no obstructions. If you notice ink residue or other particles, gently clean the nib with a soft cloth to maintain a consistent ink flow and prevent future issues. Check the Closure Mechanism: If your ballpoint pen has a closure mechanism, such as a cap, ensure it closes correctly. This will protect the nib and prevent ink leakage when the pen is not in use. Remember to store your ballpoint pen horizontally when not in use to avoid ink leaks and always use the cap, if available, to protect the nib from excessive contamination. Also, avoid pressing too hard during writing to prolong the nib’s life. Regularly check the ink level and replace the refill when necessary for continuous and trouble-free writing. Conclusion In conclusion, the process of refilling top-quality ballpoint pens is not just a practical necessity but a ritual that preserves the beauty and efficiency of such a precious tool. By following the detailed steps of choosing the nib, preparing the workspace, inserting the new refill, and checking its function, you can keep your luxury Pineider ballpoint pen in optimal condition. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Charles Jeffrey, Colab on Arrival
13 March 2024Our capsule collection, born from the collaboration with Charles Jeffrey, the visionary founder of LOVERBOY, marks a decisive moment in our creative journey. Available for online preorder, this collection is the result of a vibrant encounter between two worlds: our commitment to creating luxury products and Jeffrey’s artistic boldness. Launched in January at our Milan flagship store, the collaboration immediately captured the interest of critics and the public, generating enthusiasm and appreciation for its originality and boldness. Jeffrey, with his Scottish background and inexhaustible creative spirit, has worked with us to forge a line that celebrates the union of art, fashion, and high-quality craftsmanship. “Big Beastie,” the unique illustration by Jeffrey, adorns a selection of products ranging from leather goods to accessories, embodying a fantastical creature that captures the gaze with its numerous eyes. “I wanted to do something that was truly representative of myself and my way of seeing,” Charles told journalists during the launch event, “to interact with or wear these products: I went into the Pineider boutique and, trying them on, I wondered how they could become ‘mine’. I wanted them to be completely immersed in my personality.” The collection includes essential pieces for business and leisure, such as the Business Duffle, the Crossbody, a Pouch, a Notebook, a Business Card Holder, and a Passport Holder, available in exclusive shades of bottle green and Mini-Franzi black. These items perfectly integrate with our heritage, demonstrating how quality and timeless elegance are values that resonate well beyond Italian borders, captivating the Anglo-Saxon market as well. The Charles Jeffrey X Pineider “Big Beastie” line is now available exclusively online, offering the chance to purchase limited edition pieces, symbols of unique and distinctive luxury. We invite you to explore this exclusive collection, a true journey through art and elegance that goes beyond the ordinary. The collaboration between us and Charles Jeffrey represents much more than a simple alliance; it’s a bridge between traditions and innovations, a celebration of luxury with a soul and history. Through this new dimension of the capsule, each item becomes an expression of a unique journey in the world of design and customization, offering a renewed and deeply personal luxury experience. Pre-sale available. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Behind the scenes of elegance: Pineider presents the SS24
26 February 2024The storytelling of Pineider’s latest collection as told by the creatives who illustrated it in the new social campaign. Pineider’s journey to discover timeless elegance becomes a tribute to passions. The protagonists of the new Spring/Summer 2024 collection are travel, games, and sports, both in their outdoor dimensions and in more intimate settings. “The key to this project is authenticity,” explains Federica Trotta, the art director who brought this creative impulse to life through the videos and photographic shots of the SS24 campaign. “The idea was to create two distinct stories – one set in an indoor environment and the other in an outdoor setting – centered around a friendship. We wanted to capture the genuine essence of relationships, everyday life, and passions by offering the audience an experience that goes beyond the mere presentation of products, but dives into the very heart of human connection.” “With a careful and sensitive eye for detail,” Federica continues, “we aim to convey the brand’s story in an engaging and authentic manner, merging past, present, and future. The models embody a combination of freshness and sophistication that harmonizes beautifully with a refined style. The goal, in fact, is to make the product feel like an integral part of a lifestyle, creating an emotional bond between the customer and the craftsmanship that has always distinguished the Florentine brand.” Among the ingredients of the “indoor” story is also an elevator, “an apparently common space that becomes the catwalk of human personality. Every shot thus becomes a statement of style, an ode to the diversity we can offer every day. The same goes for the ‘outdoor’ chapter, which is a plunge into everyday life where the front door becomes the stage for an urban lookbook where past and present blend in perfect harmony in the chronicle of a typical day of two always-on-the-move friends.” Aggiungi ai preferiti
Our story, for you
10 November 2023On the occasion of the upcoming Black Friday, Pineider is opening its archives to the public for an exclusive private sale full of unique and iconic pieces. The founding of Pineider is an important chapter in the history of Tuscan tannery, one of the most sought-after and exclusive manufacturing traditions in the luxury world centered around the famous district of Santa Croce. To celebrate this precious DNA, the Florentine brand is preparing a surprise for all leather goods enthusiasts and more: coinciding with the upcoming Black Friday, unique items, rarities, and iconic collections that have placed Pineider at the forefront of high-end Made in Italy will be made available on our digital boutique. This exclusive event will take place in three distinct phases: From November 17 to 29 on pineider.com, it will be possible to register for Early Access, which will give preferential rights to participate in our Private Sales. From November 20 to 23, Black Friday will start and be accessible to all Pineider customers, with a 20% discount on pens and notebooks, and 20% off both small and large leather goods. From November 24 to 26, those with the Early Access coupon will be able to access the Private Sales and enjoy a discount of up to 70% on archive collections. Among the brand’s must-haves that will be available for purchase, there will be no shortage of small and medium leather goods collections featuring the Pineider monogram, some hard-to-find multicolor mini bags for women, travel bags, duffle bags, and a wide selection of men’s and women’s work bags. The best of our story, exclusively for you. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Writing Badly to Self Love
30 October 2023Pineider and Tatuaggimale launch a collaboration dedicated to primal writing, a tribute to the love of a gesture born with the sole purpose of changing the world. With words. The passion for handwriting in all its forms has led Pineider to encounter creatives of all kinds united by the search for a new raison d’être in the digital transformation era, for the oldest form of communication. From these encounters, calligraphy courses, writing workshops, new products, and unconventional shortcuts have emerged. The latest of these features Giovanni Barberis, a videomaker from Milan, who in 2016 gave life to a true artistic movement called Tatuaggimale. In the guise of a novice tattoo artist, almost playfully, Giovanni has legitimized a new expressive format that embraces typographic experimentation and writing on skin. His creations consist of short provocative phrases, quotes, slogans, or simple words expressed through primal styles, as if they were just sketched on a sheet of paper. But beyond the provocation of essentiality, in Tatuaggimale’s works, there is that of meaning, the unsaid, intimacy, and memories. Because each of his words conceals the aspirations, joys, pains, and personal story of those who, by getting it tattooed, have chosen it as a life companion. Drawing inspiration from four of Tatuaggimale’s most disruptive punchlines, Pineider wanted to create a limited edition of its black Jazz notebooks, totaling 100 copies, unveiled during a Halloween party in its Milan boutique. An unconventional project that celebrates the love for a rebellious gesture: sparking a spark in others by transforming thoughts into text. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Would a Pen By Any Other Name Smell As Sweet? (It Seems Unlikely)
16 October 2023Pineider, the luxury leather-goods maker and purveyor of exquisite writing instruments, brings their distinctly Florentine artistry to the New World. By Daniele Delerme Flores On a recent visit to Pineider’s new atelier at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan – new, of course, being a relative term as the location has been open for more than a year but, then again, the company does trace its history all the way back to 1744 – the interesting juxtaposition of Old World Italian taste, refinement, and sensibility meeting American brashness becomes readily apparent from the moment one enters the charming and rather intimate space. At first glance, the dark mahogany paneling and warm, ambient lighting are nothing if not soothing – a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Sixth Avenue just a stone’s throw from the front door and the wall-sized advertisements for Seth Myers and The Tonight Show that are visible through the large glass panel windows at the back of the retail space that look out on an interior hallway of 30 Rockefeller. One would gladly remain indefinitely (but comfortably) ensconced amongst these finely crafted works of art, perusing and admiring. And what works of art there are. Pineider’s emphasis on lifestyle as a luxury purveyor of quality goods is evident upon merely a cursory inspection of the leather luggage set on display near the atelier’s entrance. Leather works range from travel desks and leather-bound notebooks to messenger bags, overnighters, duffles, holdalls, and totes. And then there are the writing instruments, a testament to the skill and imagination of Signor Dante Del Vecchio, the company’s resident “pen expert.” From the resin-based pieces to bright, eye-catching enamels, or the more subdued but still enticing skeleton models, the artistry, attention to detail, and pure love of the craft is apparent in each offering. Perhaps even more importantly for the customer, wielding one of Pineider’s instruments allows the writer to experience the simple act of writing on an altogether different level. Whether one is taking a step back in time to a bygone age with the fountain pen, staying the course with the ballpoint, or trying something off the beaten path with the roller-ball, the feel of a Pineider pen in one’s hand is truly an experience unlike any other. As a writer, my creative process usually begins with a pen and notepad. Over the years, I have found it easier to formulate my thoughts when putting pen to paper, as opposed to fingers to keyboard. Quite simply, I can’t write with a pen faster than my mind can formulate a sentence, so I find the pace of drafting in longhand to be a pleasant one. On the few occasions where I have tried my hand at typing an initial draft via word processor, subsequent drafts invariably require more revisions. To put it bluntly, I suspect this is because I can type faster than I can think (insert “shoulder shrug” emoji here). Recognizing these preferences (or limitations – beauty, after all, is in the eye of the beholder), my incomparable Editor-in-Chief at No Chaser, Karl Edwin Guerre (who, it should be noted, is also a brand ambassador for the company) suggested that I broaden my horizons and consider a luxury writing instrument from the skilled craftsmen at Pineider. With that in mind, I met Guerre on a bright and sunny afternoon at the Rockefeller Center location, where I was introduced to Liz Burghardt, a sales associate who proved to be quite knowledgeable. After explaining the unique peculiarities of my particular writing process, Liz suggested the rollerball model. As it turned out, her observations proved to be quite prescient. And so my journey as a Pineider-enthusiast began. Daniele Delerme Flores is Associate Editor and a contributor to No Chaser (print and online), a luxury lifestyle publication. He has written extensively about men’s style for publications such as The Rake -the Modern Voice of Classic Elegance, and websites like A Suitable Wardrobe. He is also the author of The Best Dressed Man In The Room – A Photographic History of the Sartorially Inclined Goniffs, Gamblers, and Gangsters of the Inter-War Years, 1920-1945, and, more recently, Pretty, A Novel from the East Harlem Cycle. His blog, An Uptown Dandy, remains a frequently cited source of information regarding menswear ephemera. He can also be found on Instagram at @an_uptown_dandy. Aggiungi ai preferiti
Back to School. The Art of Handwriting
14 September 2023Pineider’s beautiful handwriting courses are back in their boutiques. An opportunity to rediscover the forgotten pleasure of an ancient and subversive act: writing by hand. “In the digital age, paper and pen preserve the delicate beauty of everything that cannot be replicated. The slant of ‘l,’ the intricacies of ‘g,’ ink smudges, the spacing between words. These are the fingerprints of human personality.” With these words, excerpted from Pineider’s Manifesto, writer Enrico Dal Buono crystallized the essence of handwriting, a “realm of unique and irreproducible singularities” where “writing a simple note becomes a subversive gesture, a claim of uniqueness. By holding a pen, we expose ourselves to the risk of loss, we pledge to the certainty of never again. And this decision, which rebels against the mechanism of seriality, corresponds to authentic luxury.” A luxury that comes to life every year in the handwriting workshops organized by Pineider in its boutiques in Milan, Florence, and London. Starting from late September, the courses dedicated to those who want to re-learn writing or simply enjoy the pleasure of holding a pen will resume. Eloisa Libera, a handwriting teacher and partner in this initiative for the Milan boutique’s courses, prefers the term “beautiful handwriting” to “calligraphy.” Eloisa is the founder of Lettera E, a graphic studio dedicated to her greatest passion, in which she wagered her past as a product designer and embarked on an entirely uncharted future: “I worked in a small agency, where I was often in contact with the world of graphic design,” Eloisa explains. “I was very drawn to the world of fonts and curious about the origins of the design of each letter, so I discovered the world of calligraphy and fell in love with it, to the point of giving up everything and diving headfirst into it.” Eloisa’s journey was unconventional: “from fonts to lettering, to finally embracing calligraphy. Usually, it happens the other way around, but fortunately, it worked out for me. I immersed myself in something where it was difficult to see the future, and I turned my passion into my profession.” Discover our beautiful handwriting courses HERE. Aggiungi ai preferiti
