The Birth of Inkstone Styles
An inkstone, or "yan" in Chinese, is a tool used for grinding inksticks into ink. Hence, the basic functions and structure of an inkstone consist of a grinding surface called the "yan tang" and an ink reservoir called the "mo chi" or "inkwell." Inkstones are primarily made of stone or refined clay. Now that you have this information, you can imagine what an inkstone might look like.
Inkstone and People
Not only did scholars in the past have an inkstone on their desks, but it was also indispensable for painters, emperors conducting political affairs, and women writing poetry or teaching children. In cold weather, a warm inkstone was always accompanying people, and even during traveling, inkstones were essential items carried along in one's luggage. The inkstone of ancient times could be compared to today's mobile phones!
Warm inkstone- Qianlong reign (1736-1795), Qing dynasty
- With copper-alloy burner and spoon
Jade writing utensils box- 18th century, Qing dynasty
- With inkstone, brush and spoon
