Ready for a Taccia 2nd Version Ukiyo – e Ink Review? We recently got two of the inks from Taccia’s 2nd Version Ukiyo-e ink series in the hands of a reviewer, and we wanted to share his ink journey with you in today’s “Ink Depth” look at these two gorgeous inks: Taccia Utamaro Benizakura ink and Hiroshige Asahanada ink.

Guest Reviewer: Rick or InkyRick

Meet today’s guest reviewer, Rick. Rick (aka InkyRick) can be found on Instagram at @inky_inspirations. If you’re a fan of inks and you like someone to tell you just how it is – then Rick could be your go to guy for details on specific inks. His reviews are very clear, and concise, but they also cover all the bases. Don’t believe us? Check out his reviews of today’s two Taccia fountain pen inks below.

But First: A Bit of Info on the Ink Series

In the words of InkyRick, “Today, we’re looking at Asahanada from the second series of inks in Taccia’s Ukiyo-e collection. The Ukiyo-e inks are some of the most beautifully presented on the market. The original Ukiyo-e series contained Sabimidori, my favorite ink from 2020, and I’ve been excited to try the recently released second series honoring artists Hiroshige and Utamaro.”

Rick’s Review: Taccia 2nd Version Ukiyo-e Ink Inspiration & Packaging

“Asahanada is one of the four inks honoring Hiroshige. Considered one of the last great ukiyo-e masters, his series 100 Famous Views of Edo includes some of the genre’s most iconic works. Asahanada was inspired by no.75, Dyer’s Quarter, Kanda. The image depicts indigo-dyed fabrics billowing in the wind with Mt. Fuji in the background. The image covers the ink’s box.”

Rick’s Review: The Asahanada Ink Color

“This is a special blue. Blending mid-indigo and dark aquamarine, it’s a complex combo. Hints of yellow and green give it an appealing and energizing visual feel. It’s a nice shader, and a dark halo frames strokes very successfully. It immediately catches your eye and stands out.”

Rick’s Review: How Does Taccia Asahanada Ink Perform?

“Asahanada performs well and is particularly nice on coated papers. Neither wet nor dry, it’s consistent and comfortable in use. Drying was average. It’s a very nice writing ink.

Rick’s Review: Does He Recommend It?

“I definitely recommend Taccia Asahanada fountain pen ink. I love interesting blues, and this is one of my new favorites!” Find more blue fountain pen inks!

Rick’s Review: Taccia 2nd Vs. Ukiyo-e Utamaro Benizakura Inspiration and Packaging

“What a red! This is the 2nd of the latest Taccia Ukiyo-e inks sent to me by @penchalet for review, and they couldn’t have chosen a truer red! Taccia worked with color consultant, and author of The Science of Color That Moves People, @hanae_matsumoto. These are thoughtfully chosen colors and designs, and Benizakura is a real beauty! Benizakura is from the four inks honoring Kitagawa Utamaro, a highly prolific ukiyo-e artist. He’s best known for his exaggerated portraits of beautiful women. Today’s ink was inspired by Girl Blowing Glass Toy, and the image beautifully covers the ink box.

Rick’s Review: The Benizakura Ink Color

“Benizakura means crimson cherry blossom, but this ink is more vivid and has a brighter personality than most crimsons. I’d call it a siren red! It’s low in shading, but a nice halo edge gives it clean definition. There’s a bit of gold sheen in the splatter, but little in writing. The color is the real star of the show.”

Rick’s Review: How Does Taccia Benizakura Ink Perform?

“This is a writer’s ink! It’s so comfortable on the page. It’s wet and delicious, flows effortlessly, and drying is about average. This is a very pleasant ink!”

Rick’s Review: Does He Recommend It?

“I love Taccia inks, and the Ukiyo-e series packaging couldn’t be nicer. The 40 ml bottles are $20, and I think you’ll love them as much as I do!”

Rick’s Review: Where and How Much?

Rick received these 2 beautiful inks from Pen Chalet for review. We currently carry the original 8 Ukiyo-e inks, as well as the eight 2nd version inks that were recently released. In Rick’s words, “Between the beautiful 40 ml inks, and the museum-quality packaging, I can’t think of a better-spent $20!”

More Reviews + All Your Favorite Pen & Ink Brands

If you’re looking for more pen and ink reviews, follow along with @penchalet on your favorite social media platform, and check back here on the fountain pen blog for regular updates! And, as always, make us your first stop when you’re looking for new pen and ink treasures from your favorite pen and ink brands by visiting PenChalet.com.