Genuine Ox Bone Nib Pen

A traditional dip pen fashioned from genuine ox bone.

Turned from off-white ox bone, this slender nib pen recalls the simple writing instruments found on earlier correspondence desks. The naturally varied bone handle gives each pen subtle differences in tone and texture, while the contoured form provides a comfortable grip for writing and ink work.

A removable metal nib fits into the end of the handle, allowing the pen to be dipped directly into bottled ink—a wonderfully simple connection between hand, ink and paper.

Selected by Boston Lore Studio as a functional historical reproduction and an unusual addition to the traditional writing desk.

• Genuine off-white ox bone handle
• Approximately 6 in. long
• Turned and contoured handle
• Removable, interchangeable metal nib
• Intended for dip-pen writing and ink work
• Historical-style reproduction
• Natural bone may show variations in color and texture
• From Madison Bay Co., Pennsylvania, USA

From the Archivist’s Desk

I expected this pen to be more curiosity than writing instrument, but it surprised me. The simple metal nib writes remarkably well for a traditional dip pen, with a comfortable bone handle that makes it quite usable for letters, notes, and ink testing—not merely an object for display.