The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2023 - Issue 34

Cristina Lloyd admires the Montblanc Muses Maria Callas Special Edition, dedicated to American-born Greek opera singer Maria Callas. Montblanc bitepen S ince it revolutionised the writing culture in 1906, luxury goods brand Montblanc has pushed the boundaries of innova- tion and excellence in craftsmanship and design. Ingenuity and imagination continue to be Maison’s driving force implemented in its writing in- struments, watches, leather goods, new technologies and accessories. Its ongoing mission is to create fine lifetime companions from bold ideas expertly crafted through the skills of the artisans, including the iconic Montblanc Emblem. Montblanc reveres the art of writing in its exhibition at Montblanc Haus in Hamburg, Germany, paying hom- age to the history as well as the present and future. “It is about the people who have left their mark in the world, those who follow in their footsteps and those who do not follow any path, [solely] their intuition. It is about everyone who has inspired, is inspired and will inspire. It’s about the instruments putting the inspiration on paper.” At the exhibition, in the permanent section, you’ll find iconic figures’ original handwritings, such as Ernest Hemingway, Frida Kahlo and Jackie Chan and over 410 Montblanc writing instruments from historic fountain pens to the latest. Montblanc's beginning is displayed, and a look behind the scenes of the team crafting the brand's most exclusive writing instruments, including the making of the nibs, can be witnessed. It also pro- vides an immersive experience created to inspire writ- ing. The artworks in the temporary section are inspired by writing, with some created with writing instruments. “Others interpret writing and language in an unseen way, proving our deep, emotional connection to words can go way beyond reading.” The featured artists are connected through ‘salondergegenwart’, a nonprofit initiative supporting newcomers to the German art world by presenting them with established interna- tional artists such as Jorinde Voigt, Arthur Löwen and Lilia Kovka. Montblanc extends its celebration of writing to the Montblanc Muses writing instrument collection dedi- cated to women who have left an inedible mark on cul- ture and society. The thoughtful design edition reflects each muse’s unique characteristics and extraordinary legacy. Previously, they featured Elizabeth Taylor, the cap and barrel covered with dark violet marbleised lac- quer and platinum-coated fittings reflecting the film goddess’ legendary eyes and her favourite colour. The cap top is decorated with a Montblanc emblem in precious resin, and the cone recalls with its geomet- ric engraving a typical jewellery pattern of the 1950s. Elizabeth Taylor’s passion for jewels inspired the ring- Maria Callas Special Edition