Feather quill ink

The quill pen, made from feathers of birds such as geese and swans, was the primary writing instrument for centuries.

About this subject

The quill pen, or simply quill, was the dominant writing instrument in the Western world from the Middle Ages until the 19th century. It was crafted from the primary flight feathers of large birds such as geese, swans, and crows, chosen for their strength and flexibility. Preparation involved curing the feather shaft in hot sand or water, drying it, and then cutting the tip with a small knife (hence the term 'penknife'). The tip was cut at an angle and slit to form a nib that held ink through capillary action.

The most common ink was iron gall ink, made from ferrous sulfate, tannin extracted from oak galls, water, and gum arabic. This ink was permanent and dark, ideal for official documents. Writers and calligraphers varied the line width by adjusting pressure and the pen's angle. Historic documents, such as the United States Declaration of Independence, were written with goose quills.

Quill use declined with the invention of the steel dip pen in 1822 and the fountain pen in the late 19th century, which eliminated the need for constant dipping and nib sharpening. However, the quill pen persists in artistic calligraphy and historical reenactments. Interestingly, crow quills produced finer lines, while eagle quills were used for large lettering. The English word 'penknife' derives from the tool used to sharpen quills, a small knife every scribe carried.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the term 'penknife' in relation to quill pens?

The term 'penknife' refers to the small knife used to sharpen and shape the nib of a quill pen. Every scribe carried one to keep the pen in good condition.

What type of ink was used with quills and how was it made?

Iron gall ink was most common, made from ferrous sulfate, tannin from oak galls, water, and gum arabic. It produced a permanent dark color and was resistant to fading.

Why were goose feathers preferred for writing?

Goose feathers were preferred for their size, strength, and ink-holding capacity. The primary flight feathers provided an ideal balance of flexibility and durability.