There’s something undeniably captivating about fountain pen ink, a charm that refuses to fade, even in our screen-filled world. Unlike disposable pens or mass-produced cartridges, bottled ink invites you to slow down, savor each swirl of color, and turn the simple act of writing into a tiny daily ritual.
Every stroke and ink flow from the nib, and every refill feels like a nod to the past, a tribute to an age when people poured thoughts onto paper with intention, one letter at a time. Bottled inks aren’t just tools; they’re liquid personality. The hue you choose can whisper sophistication, shout creativity, or evoke a nostalgia that only handwriting can capture.
In this blog, we’re spotlighting a bottled ink that beautifully embodies this timeless allure: Teranishi’s Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink. Steeped in history and dressed in vintage charm, this ink brings a touch of early 20th-century elegance to your writing desk and a splash of color to your day.
A Short History of Bottled Inks
The invention and use of ink have been part of countless civilizations throughout history. Ancient cultures like Egypt, China, and India crafted early inks from soot, minerals, and plant dyes to record knowledge and art. During medieval times in Europe, monks and scribes relied on iron gall ink, a mixture of iron salts and tannic acid derived from plants, which became the standard for manuscripts and official documents. (Fun fact: iron gall ink is still available today for those who love a touch of history in their writing!)
The bottled ink we know and love today began to flourish in Europe around the 17th century, thanks to the growing popularity of quill pens and, later, steel dip pens. Ready-made ink in glass bottles offered convenience and consistency, sparing writers the trouble of mixing their own. By the 19th century, as the fountain pen was invented and widely adopted, bottled ink had become an everyday essential for refilling pens at home, at school, and in offices around the world.
Meet the Brand Behind the Bottle: Teranishi Guitar
Before we dip our nibs into the enchanting colors of the Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Inks, it’s worth pausing to appreciate the legacy behind it. Teranishi Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., known lovingly to stationery fans as “Guitar,” has been adding color to everyday life for over a century. Founded in 1916, this Osaka-born company survived world wars, rebuilt from devastating bombings, and still thrives today as a symbol of creativity and resilience.
They’re not just famous for ink: Teranishi pioneered Magic Ink, Japan’s first oil-based marking pen, which became so iconic that people still call any oil marker a “Magic” by habit. For many in Japan, Teranishi’s paints and crayons are nostalgic childhood staples, remembered fondly through catchy TV jingles.
Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink Collection
To celebrate Teranishi’s 105th anniversary in 2021, the company launched the Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink as a heartfelt tribute, a return to their roots, and a celebration of the journey that began in Taisho 5 (1916) when Teranishi Chemical Industry was founded. This milestone honors over a century of adding color and creativity to everyday life.
Today, the collection features six beautiful ink colors, each with its own uniquely charming shade. Staying true to Teranishi’s blend of tradition and innovation, the Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink line captures the romantic spirit of Japan’s Taisho era through rich, elegant tones that make every handwritten word feel a little more nostalgic and special. Whether you’re jotting down thoughts, crafting letters, or adding a vintage touch to your journals, this ink strikes just the right note for vintage lovers and modern writers alike.
Melancholic Blue is a deep, soulful shade that brings a touch of quiet elegance to your writing. This dark blue ink carries a subtle warmth beneath its rich tone, evoking the feeling of twilight skies or vintage handwritten letters.
Classy Burgundy is a deep, refined red that exudes quiet confidence and vintage charm. This rich burgundy ink adds an air of sophistication to every word, reminiscent of a cover of an old leather-bound book.
Brilliant Mint is a striking deep turquoise that captures the refreshing spirit of cool waters and the lively charm of retro hues. More vivid than your typical mint, this dark aqua shade brings an unexpected pop of color to your writing, sketches, or planner highlights.
Night Time Soda is a deep, cool-toned blue that evokes the quiet mystery of a clear night sky. With its crisp, slightly icy undertone, this dark blue ink adds an elegant depth to your words and drawings.
Innocent Mauve is a rich, dark lilac that beautifully balances sweetness and depth. With its romantic hue, a deep blend of purple and rose tones, this ink brings a gentle yet sophisticated charm to your writing and creative projects.
Emotional Olive is a warm, earthy olive tone with golden undertones that evokes a sense of grounded elegance and natural beauty. This ink adds a unique vintage-inspired touch to your writing, perfect for those who want to stand out with a subtle yet distinctive color.
Perfect Partners: Products to Pair with Teranishi Guitar Ink
To fully experience the beauty and elegance of Teranishi’s Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink, choosing the right writing instruments is just as important as the ink itself. Luckily, Teranishi offers a fantastic lineup of complementary products designed to bring out the best in every drop of ink.
Guitar Fountain Pen
The Guitar Fountain Pen in Purple is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and everyday elegance. Its deep purple lacquered brass body exudes sophistication and durability, making it as delightful to hold as it is to admire.
Equipped with a fine stainless steel nib, this pen glides effortlessly across the page, delivering crisp, consistent lines that elevate even the simplest note. Thoughtfully balanced for comfort, it feels just right in the hand, whether you’re writing pages in your journal or penning a heartfelt letter.
Guitar Fountain Pen Brilliant
The Guitar Fountain Pen Brilliant in Rose Pink effortlessly combines elegance and everyday luxury. Its pearlescent finish and gold accents lend a refined, sophisticated look that stands out on any desk or in any pen case.
With a smooth, fine ("F") nib, this pen delivers a delightfully consistent ink flow, making writing feel natural and effortless, whether you’re jotting down quick notes or composing a heartfelt letter. Thoughtfully designed to be beginner-friendly, it offers an accessible entry point for those new to fountain pens while satisfying seasoned writers with its polished performance.
Guitar Glass Pen Aurora
The Guitar Glass Pen Aurora in Ice Mint is a true work of art, blending delicate beauty with practical function. It's cool, marble-inspired hue and elegant silhouette make it an eye-catching companion for your writing desk or pen collection.
Handcrafted with a durable, hard glass nib, it glides smoothly across the page, ensuring a steady ink flow for everything from journaling and letter writing to expressive calligraphy and artistic doodles. Compatible with a wide variety of inks, whether water-based, pigment, or shimmering, this pen invites you to experiment with colors and effects to your heart’s content.
Cleaning is refreshingly simple: just rinse with water, and you’re ready for your next ink adventure. Housed in a premium box, the Guitar Glass Pen Aurora makes a thoughtful gift for any stationery lover or a little indulgence for yourself.
Embrace the Art of Writing with Teranishi Guitar Ink
In a world that moves fast and digital screens dominate, Teranishi’s Guitar Taisho Roman Haikara Ink invites us to pause and rediscover the simple joy of putting pen to paper. This collection isn’t just about color, it’s about connection: to history, to craftsmanship, and our unique voice.
Each bottle carries over a century of tradition and innovation, blending the nostalgic charm of Japan’s Taisho era with the vibrant creativity of today’s writers. Whether you’re a seasoned fountain pen enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of bottled inks, these exquisite hues offer something truly special, a timeless elegance that turns everyday writing into a cherished ritual.
