If chocolate is the answer….the question is irrelevant.
— Anonymous
The Conviviality of Chocolate
Every year on July 7th, chocolate enthusiasts around the globe celebrate World Chocolate Day, a tribute to one of humanity's most beloved indulgences. This day marks the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550, a moment that would forever shape culinary history. From its ancient origins to its present-day ubiquity, chocolate has been a symbol of comfort, luxury, and pleasure.
The history of chocolate is as rich and complex as its flavor. It begins with the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where the cacao bean was not only consumed but also revered. The Aztecs and Mayans concocted a bitter beverage called xocolatl, which they believed was a divine gift. With the arrival of Spanish explorers in the New World, chocolate found its way to Europe, where it underwent a transformation. Sugar and milk were added, turning the once bitter drink into a sweet delight that captivated European palates.
Chocolate's gastronomic evolution continued as it became more accessible to the masses, thanks to advancements in processing techniques during the Industrial Revolution. The creation of solid chocolate bars by the mid-19th century marked a turning point, making chocolate a convenient treat that could be enjoyed anywhere, anytime. This period also saw the birth of iconic brands such as Cadbury, Nestlé, and Hershey, which played pivotal roles in popularizing chocolate globally.
Today, chocolate is more than just a treat, it is an integral part of many cultures and cuisines. It is featured in an array of products, from simple chocolate bars to elaborate desserts. Its versatility extends to savory dishes as well, where it adds depth and complexity to sauces and stews. Moreover, chocolate has found a place in the worlds of art and fashion, inspiring creations that celebrate its allure and beauty.
World Chocolate Day is not just a celebration of the confection itself but also a recognition of the craftsmanship and passion behind its creation. Artisanal chocolatiers continue to innovate, exploring new flavors, textures, and sustainable practices. They honor the legacy of chocolate while pushing the boundaries of what it can be.
As we celebrate World Chocolate Day, we are reminded of chocolate's power to bring joy and comfort. Whether it's a simple piece of dark chocolate savored in a quiet moment or an elaborate chocolate dessert shared with loved ones, chocolate has a unique ability to create moments of bliss. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of this remarkable food, which continues to captivate and delight people of all ages around the world.
EndlessPens Celebrates Chocolatey Delights
In honor of World Chocolate Day and our personal affinity for this universal treat, let us tempt you with some fountain pens and inks that evoke the lusciousness of chocolate in all its decadent hues and rich textures —
Kilk Tortoise Baroque Fountain Pen - This new, refreshed version of the Kilk Tortoise Baroque contains an updated material that is slightly more yellow than the previous version's reddish-brown hue. It is a classic design inspired by the Turkish Rococo period, combining a plated bronze band and roll stop with a tortoise-colored, precious resin body. Intricate accents reminiscent of the Dolmabahce Palace, combined with a steel nib and cartridge-to-converter filling system, make this pen a must-have for any writing lover.
J Herbin Cacao du Brésil Ink Bottle - Cocoa from Brazil: this name evokes the exoticism of the South American continent as well as the bitter flavor of cocoa.
BENU Talisman Dream Bean Fountain Pen - The Talisman series lets you step into the hypnotizing realm of folklore with its marvelous collection of pens. Inspired by myths and legends, the collection fuses elements believed to bring luck, protection, money or love. Dream Bean draws inspiration from certain tales of yore, we set out to convey these stories not only in the color and style of each pen, but by actually infusing African Dream Bean powder into each pen’s material. The body and cap features a black and brown high quality resin base accented with a silver clip, brown dust grain effect and green and orange sparkles all throughout the pen. Fitted with a #6, Schmidt stainless steel nib.
Diamine Brown Ink Bottle - Diamine brand ink has a long and rich history, dating back to 1864. Diamine ink is produced in the UK and is made with a gentle formula safe for all fountain pens. It has quickly become one of the most popular and sought-after brands around. A wide selection of ink colors is available.
Opus 88 Omar Fountain Pen - It is an eyedropper-style fountain pen, so you would unscrew the front section on the pen, and then with that eyedropper that is included, you would fill the ink into the barrel of the pen, and then reattach it. Opus 88 is imprinted on the bottom of the cap. Includes a stainless steel German nib that has Opus 88 engraved on it and glass eye drop filler packaged in a stylish gift box.
Platinum Carbon Pigment Ink Bottle - A smooth-flowing, water-resistant pigmented ink in a rich brown hue.
Pelikan M200 Classic Marbled-Brown Fountain Pen - A more affordable counterpart to Pelikan's flagship Souveran line of gold-nibbed fountain pens, this Classic M200 in marbled brown features the same great classic design, exceptional build quality, and high-capacity piston filling system with a smooth and juicy steel nib. It is slim and lightweight—perfect for those with smaller hands but equally comfortable for those with larger hands when the cap is posted on the back of the pen. This pen features a stunning brown marble finish that glimmers with an enthralling pearlescent sheen. A transparent amber window near the grip section lets you see how much ink is in the pen. The design is complemented by gold-colored trim and a stainless steel nib engraved with the Pelikan logo.
Wearingeul The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Literature Ink Bottle - The Color of Literature is the project expressing the stories and impressions of literature works with colors. Wearingeul inks illustrate the specific scenes or the atmosphere of novels and poems. Also, some Wearingeul ink sets represent the main concept of the original stories, giving a unique experience following the itinerary of the characters in the stories. Wearingeul inks are suitable for writing and drawing with fountain pens, dip pens, glass pens and other various ink pens. These inks have great shading, sheening effect, flow and visibility. Both beginners and experts of ink writing/drawing can use Wearingeul inks without difficulties.
Leonardo Momento Zero Hades Fountain Pen - An Endless Exclusive for 2024! Introducing Hades, a blank designed by @twenty_sides, in DiamondCast by McKenzie Penworks and beautifully showcased on the masterfully crafted Momento Zero design by Leonardo. Complete with elegant ruthenium trims and a matching ruthenium nib, this exquisite pen is available in luxurious 14K gold.
Robert Oster Black Gulaman Ink Bottle and Robert Oster Sago at Black Gulaman Ink Bottle - Both Endless Exclusives for 2024! These 50ml bottles of Black Gulaman and Sago at Black Gulaman inks are creative collaborations between Robert Oster and @micahfinds, created especially for the 2024 Manila Pen Show. Their hues are reminiscent of the beloved Filipino dessert / drink, Black Gulaman with Sago.
Let these writing companions inspire you to celebrate World Chocolate Day — by writing down a sweet note or letter to a loved one, jotting down a quote or recipe, or even sketching your favorite chocolatey drink or dessert. Enjoy!
All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.
— Charles M. Schulz
Happy World Chocolate Day!
Use the code LEKZ10 to get a 10% discount!
* Not applicable for HopDrop, Clearance, On Sale items, and select brands.
Written by @lekzumali
Check out her musings on Instagram!
