Montblanc have released a patron of the arts limited edition every year since 1992

Only 888 ever made.

Montblanc presents the annual Patron of the Arts 2013 edition commemorating the life and influence of Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, one of the most prominent patrons of the Italian Renaissance and protector of the great Leonardo Da Vinci.

For 22 years, the Patron of the Arts edition has celebrated the contribution of different historical patrons of the arts.

The latest Patron of the Arts edition, with a solid gold version limited to 888 pieces and a sterling silver edition limited to 4810 fountain pens, brings to life the splendor of the Renaissance.

Ludovico Sforza (1452 – 1508), a shrewd ruler and ambitious diplomat, had an insatiable passion for the arts, transforming Milan into one of the most magnificent courts in Europe. Under his patronage, Leonardo Da Vinci created his most famous works including ‘The Last Supper’ and ‘Lady with an Ermine’.

The monumental Sforza Castle in Milan, home of the most prestigious ducal dynasty, is the inspiration for the cover of the editions and the design of the clip, with the distinctive cylindrical towers.

The decorative details of the writing instruments reproduce the motif used by Da Vinci in the fresco of his “Sala delle Asse” or “Chamber of Councils”, as well as in the dress and ornaments of the Mona Lisa.

The initials engraved on the cap ring refer to the “Testone”, a silver coin minted in honor of Ludovico Sforza during the Milanese Renaissance.

Limitation: 888 Fountain Pens

The pen is a piston filler so requires a ink bottle to fill.

The pens nib is made from 18K  gold and is a M= medium in size.

The pen comes complete with its wooden presentation , outer card box and info booklets with completed out of date warranty card