reed pen
Quick Summary
A reed pen is a writing implement made from the stem of a reed, such as bamboo. These pens were historically significant for their ability to create a variety of linear effects, from fine lines to broader strokes, depending on the pressure applied. Artists like Rembrandt and Vincent van Gogh famously utilized reed pens, often in combination with other tools, to achieve unique expressive qualities in their drawings. While not as universally popular as quill or metal pens, the reed pen offered distinct artistic possibilities and was a favored tool for specific expressive needs.12
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
- paleographyTypes of writing materials
…about 300 bc the thicker reed pen was used. The reed was in general use in the Greco-Roman world. Metal pens, copied from the reed, were also employed. For wax tablets a stylus was used, made of wood, bone, ivory, iron, or bronze. In many northern European areas, where reeds…
Read More…about 300 bc the thicker reed pen was used. The reed was in general use in the Greco-Roman world. Metal pens, copied from the reed, were also employed. For wax tablets a stylus was used, made of wood, bone, ivory, iron, or bronze. In many northern European areas, where reeds…
Read More 
calligraphyOrigins to the 8th century ce…a pen of a hard reed, split at the tip and cut into a nib (which had to be constantly sharpened), is an invention of the Greeks. Egyptian scribes used a soft reed, with which ink was brushed on.
Read More…a pen of a hard reed, split at the tip and cut into a nib (which had to be constantly sharpened), is an invention of the Greeks. Egyptian scribes used a soft reed, with which ink was brushed on.
Read More