SwordLion: A Unique Metal Postcard PenHolder

Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Innovative Design

The Anping Swordlion, once a common sight in the old streets of Anping, is now a rare cultural totem with only 30 to 40 remaining. Chen and Cho sought to preserve this unique heritage and share it with the world through their design. The SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder is not only a tribute to the Anping Swordlion but also a way to spread awareness of this cultural symbol.

What sets the SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder apart is its integration of a postcard and a penholder. The laser carving technique and foldable metal structure mechanism allow users to write greetings, notes, or doodles on the graphical metal sheet and send it as a postcard. Once received, the recipient can fold and bend the postcard into a penholder, creating a unique and functional gift.

The production of the SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder involves laser cutting and engraving on galvanized sheet metal. The metal is then coated with a powder paint finish, giving it a vibrant and durable color. The design is available in five different colors, each representing one of the Chinese 5 elements: Golden Metal, Green Wood, Blue Water, Red Fire, and Yellow Earth. The dimensions of the penholder are L20.6*W12.6*H1mm, making it compact and portable.

The SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder is part of a series consisting of five different pieces, each with unique facial features and colors. These pieces are sold in historical tourist spots, allowing visitors to collect and display the complete set. The design has been exhibited in various international events, including the Taiwan Creative Expo, Tokyo GIFTEX, and Paperworld in Germany.

ChungSheng Chen and ChangHsien Cho collaborated with Tainan University of Technology, Acdesign Associates International Co., Ltd, ChihHua Kuo, and Taiwan Innovation Metal Corporation to bring this design to life. The project, partially funded by the Tainan City Government, aimed to transform and upgrade a local sheet metal factory into a cultural creative industry.

The SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder has received recognition for its creativity and innovation. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Art and Stationery Supplies category in 2018. This prestigious award is given to designs that meet professional and industrial requirements, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics.

With its combination of art, design, and cultural heritage, the SwordLion Metal Postcard PenHolder is a unique and meaningful gift that celebrates tradition while embracing modernity.