Let’s Explore the World of Calligraphy!

The Four Treasures of a Studio: Paper, Brush-Pen, Ink, and Inkstone

Paper

Paper is considered one of China’s four greatest inventions. It is believed that Cai Lun invented paper two thousand years ago. Before this, ancient people carved characters on bones, bamboo slips, and utensils. The paper is light, thin, and cheap. It is also highly absorbent and flexible, allowing the brush-pen to work to its full potential and leave unique marks.

Brush-Pen

Tradition says that Meng Tian of State of Qin invented the brush. Brushes are made of different hairs, such as rabbit hair, wool, and wolf hair. Even baby hair can be made into fetal-hair brushes. A good brush encompasses both hardness and softness, spotting a unique character. It can be used for both writing and drawing, leaving behind a spectrum of traces.

Ink

Ink was discovered as early as the Neolithic Age. It is made from charcoal particles sifted from the black smoke, mixed with glue and spices. It can be divided into two categories:

Pine smoke ink – made from burning pine wood. It is deep in colour and thick in texture, making it ideal for writing.
Oil smoke ink – mainly made from burning Tung oil or vegetable oil among others. It is suitable for painting.

Inkstone

Ink preparation requires concentration and balance, which is an important part of cultivating the right mind for calligraphy! Most inkstones are made from stone quarried in the mountains. Grind an ink stick on the inkstone with some water, and you will get ink!