A S Batle Company - Sculptor Anelio Batle makes these unusual implements that are equally an object of art and a functional drawing/writing tool. Each Graphite Object is meticulously hand-crafted in his San Francisco studio. First, he carves an original design in clay. With intense pressure, carbonaceous graphite (same material in pencils) and smudge-resistant compounds are fused into a reproducible form using a proprietary technique that Batle invented. Finally using delicate carving and traditional finishing techniques, the Graphite Object is completed. All their surfaces can draw and the graphite will resist smudging onto your hand. With daily use these Graphite Objects should last 7 to 9 years. Perfect for gift giving, each Graphite Object is beautifully packaged with signed literature and a custom box.