Philip Poole - ‘His Nibs’
Philip Poole behind the counter at ‘His Nibs’
Philip Poole began his career in a shop selling artists’ materials at the age of 14. In his early twenties, he opened his own shop on Sicilian Avenue before later moving to Drury Lane. When the ballpoint pen was introduced by Miles Martin in 1945, it marked a decline in the art of calligraphy but led to a rise in the popularity of doodling.
Philip, known internationally as ‘His Nibs’ for his extensive collection of pen nibs and related equipment, was also recognized for his unparalleled knowledge in the field.
In 1980, the Writing Equipment Society (WES) was established by a group of enthusiasts who frequently visited Philip Poole’s intriguing shop at 182 Drury Lane in Covent Garden, London. WES focuses on all things related to writing and has an international membership of over 500.
Philip Poole was a founding member and long-term chairman of WES and served on the committee of the Museum of Writing. The society’s members, who share a passion for the history of writing instruments, receive a journal with the latest news, articles, advertisements, and information on upcoming meetings and swap sessions. Interested individuals can join to learn more by visiting www.wesonline.org.uk/index.html, which offers help, guidance, and links to related societies and events.
From quill cutters to propelling pencils, these tools used by our ancestors can help date undated examples and potentially match letters to specific individuals.
Philip Poole was also a key inspiration behind the Pen Room museum, home of the Birmingham Pen Trade Heritage Association. Formed in September 1996 and registered as a charity in 1997, the association started as an informal gathering of those interested in the Birmingham pen trade. Its membership has since grown to over 80, including calligraphers, cartoonists, and local enthusiasts. The Pen Room, which opened in April 2001, features a learning center and additional exhibits in The Philip Poole Room, established in June 2002.
A photo of Poole, taken by the Sunday Times in 1990, captures him at work in his shop, ‘His Nibs’.
‘His Nibs‘ Press Photos
HIS NIBS
A display of steel nibs manufactured in the mid 19th century. The examples at each end were found very useful for Arabic calligraphy and also for copper plate style. Those with filigree work were sold as very high quality nibs.
Photograph by TONY HUTCHINGS
CAMERA PRESS LONDON 30335-5 (97) - JULY 24 1979.
Reservoir Steel Pen Nib
the 19th century in the same way that people today buy
expensive fountain pens. The Fine Filigree work on
this pen nib served the purpose of an ink reservoir.
This example was produced in Birmingham in the 1830s.
Photograph by TONY HUTCHINGS
CAMERA PRESS LONDON 30335-2 (97) - JULY 24 1979.
In the Shop
Philip Poole taunting his beloved steel pen nibs. His collection was diverse and unusual during those years.
Photograph by TONY HUTCHINGS
CAMERA PRESS LONDON 30335-12 (97) - JULY 24 1979.
William Mitchell
Mitchell Pyramid Press Photo
On location in His Nibs shop 1979.
Photograph by TONY HUTCHINGS
CAMERA PRESS LONDON 30335-11 (97) - JULY 24 1979.
The Pen Museum in Birmingham
The Mitchell Pyramid now resides in The Pen Museum in Birmingham, England.
Steel Pen Nibs
JOSEPH GILLOTT'S SPRING GROUND MAMMOTH QUILL No.1001
Measurements: 4.45 in / 113mm Nib Length, 7.2 in / 183mm Overall Length, 0.4 in / 10mm Diameter
Special Steel Pen Nibs
Perry & Co. Queen Mary Pen, Cuthbert Superfine, Sir Josiah Mason Fine 207
Other Exotic Steel Pens
Philip Poole Inventory was the most diverse.
Mammoth 1001 in Two Finishes
Circa 1845
Inventory Acquired from Philip Poole in 1979
The Calling Card
His Nibs
The Original Business Card of “His Nibs” Philip Poole
182 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5QL
Phone 01-405 7097