Feather quill ink

A goose feather dipped in India ink represents one of the most enduring writing instruments in history, used for centuries before the fountain pen.

About this subject

The quill pen, made from the flight feathers of large birds such as geese, swans, turkeys, and ravens, served as the primary writing instrument in the Western world from the 6th century until the mid-19th century. The feather's hollow shaft, or calamus, was cut at an angle with a penknife to form a nib that held ink through capillary action. Left-wing feathers were favored because their natural curve fit the right hand of most scribes.

The most common ink was iron-gall ink, made from ferrous sulfate, oak galls, and gum arabic. This ink was corrosive and over time would eat into the paper, leaving characteristic brownish trails. Historic documents such as the United States Declaration of Independence (1776) and the Magna Carta (1215) were written with quills. A scribe had to constantly re-dip the pen every few words, making the process slow and laborious.

Mass-produced metal nibs began to replace quills in the 1820s, though natural feather pens persisted in legal and calligraphic circles into the early 20th century. Today, quills are used primarily for artistic calligraphy and historical reenactments, offering a tactile link to centuries of handwritten culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How was a quill pen prepared for writing?

The feather was cut at an angle with a penknife to form a nib. The cut had to be precise to create a slit for ink flow. The nib was then trimmed and sometimes hardened by heating in hot sand.

What ink was used with quill pens?

Iron-gall ink, made from ferrous sulfate, oak galls, and gum arabic, was the most common. It darkened upon drying and was water-resistant, but it corroded paper and quills over time.

Why were goose feathers preferred for writing?

Goose feathers have thick, sturdy shafts that can hold more ink. Additionally, the natural curve of left-wing feathers fit well in the right hand of most scribes.