Classic Antiques and New Mythologies

Taiwan's Laban Pen continues to create beautiful and functional writing instruments. Here, BARRY GABAY tests the Laban Antique and Antique II fountain pens and the new Mythology ink collection.

- BARRY GABAY

When John Hu returned to his hometown of Houtong, Taiwan after a long absence, he was struck by the surrounding natural beauty: sea, sky, mountains, and forests. He saw constant change in the palette of colors and the play of light and shadow. Inspired by his environment, Hu's goal became to create beautiful yet functional objects. When he founded Laban Pen in 1981, Hu incorporated this vision.

Sensitivity and aesthetics are always at the forefront of Laban's goal and its products. Two perspectives characterize its intent: the writing instrument and the writer's sensitivity. Laban Pen Company puts it this way: “A pen is close to the palm of the writer.” “Using a pen is conveying thoughts....A pen is a tool, but what is written is the affection that modern technology cannot translate.” “Refill your soul by writing.”

Initially, Laban was an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), producing pen components for other companies. In fact, Laban became recognized as one of the foremost OEM suppliers to numerous pen brands, especially known for its silver-plated and rhodium-plated writing instruments.

Eventually, Hu decided to fulfill his dream of making pens under his own brand, and in 1993, Laban began manufacturing writing instruments under its own name. Recognition came quickly since many in the industry were already familiar with Laban's OEM quality. In 1997, Laban collaborated with the Vatican to produce a line of gift pens for the Musei del Vaticano. The pens are distributed by Vatican officials around the world. In 2004, Laban's limited edition Dragon Pen was named “best pen” by Lewis & Clark Fine Arts Academy in London, England.