Pelikan M600 Art Collection Georg Tippel

THE PELIKAN ART COLLECTION GETS A SEQUEL WITH A MASTERPIECE INSPIRED BY THE HISTORICAL POSTER ART OF GEORG TIPPEL.

Following the success of previous editions, Pelikan presents the third chapter of the Pelikan Art Collection: THE SOUVERÄN M600 PELIKAN ART COLLECTION GEORG TIPPEL.
This Special Edition is a reinterpretation of a defining work from Pelikan’s early visual language and transforms this heritage into a contemporary writing instrument.
The inspiration for this version is the ‘Grundfarben’ poster from 1899, which Tippel designed for Pelikan’s very first poster competition. His work illustrates the powerful dialogue between artistic expression and brand communication at the beginning of the modern advertising era. The motif, characterized by clear visual language and strong symbolism, embodies the values that shape Pelikan’s identity to this day. By transferring this historic poster onto the barrel of the fountain pen, Pelikan continues the tradition of elevating cultural heritage to the art of writing. A masterpiece, redesigned for the present.

A historical heritage of art and brand identity
Around the turn of the 20th century, the close ties between art and commerce forged a new artistic discipline: the art of advertising. Visionary avant-garde artists such as El Lissitzky and Kurt Schwitters created their commercial works using Pelikan ink. In doing so, they laid the foundation for a visual culture that defines the brand's heritage to this day.

This artistic tradition was shaped by Fritz Beindorff, who combined entrepreneurial spirit with a deep appreciation for the visual arts. With his initiative to organize Pelikan's first poster competition in 1898/99, he laid the foundation for an enduring dialogue between design, craftsmanship, and brand identity — a tradition that now spans more than a century. The works resulting from these competitions form the heart of the current Pelikan Art Collection. They reflect a wealth of artistic movements and preserve a unique cultural heritage, which is now being reinterpreted for a new generation of collectors and writers.

Design in a new form
A subtle yet striking detail from Tippel's original artwork forms the basis for the design of this edition. The undulating cloud formations from the 1899 poster have been translated into an abstract, rhythmic pattern on the decorated barrel of the fountain pen.
The softly flowing contours play with the light, creating depth, movement, and a subtle shimmering effect. Surrounded by semi-transparent, warm brown precious resin elements, this motif harmoniously connects historical artistry with contemporary craftsmanship.

The pen is manufactured using the advanced Aurora process. The barrel features finely engraved guilloché structures under multiple layers of lacquer, creating a radiant surface that enhances the visual power of the design. Symbolism and Meaning

In Tippel’s ‘Grundfarben’, the pelican is depicted as a caring parent watching over its young—a symbol rooted in historical legends that has long stood for dedication, responsibility, and trust. For Pelikan, this visual language conveys a core philosophy: care for customers, partners, and future generations. Through an interplay of form, color, and composition, Tippel transformed a commercial poster into a narrative image with lasting expressive power. His work is more than the promotion of a product; it embodies values such as continuity and commitment that still form the heart of Pelikan today.

A Masterpiece Reborn
With the Pelikan Art Collection Georg Tippel, a historical advertising poster is transformed into a tangible work of art. What was once a poster is now a writing instrument that weaves history, symbolism, and craftsmanship into everyday life.

A fascinating and timeless piece of Pelikan heritage—brought into the present by the art of writing.