Befriending the Inkstones
The inkstone was originally a vital tool for literati, and after establishing a strong bond with their inkstones, scholars would wash them, craft inkstone boxes, and care for them with love and attention. They would create rubbings and write inkstone catalogues to document their inkstones. Apart from this, scholars would gather with fellow inkstone enthusiasts to appreciate and talk about inkstones, forming a community of inkstone experts. What would you do for your cherished collections?
Cultural Memory
Inkstones, with their durable nature akin to stone tablets, can be passed down through generations and become carriers of cultural memory. The engraved inscriptions of cultural figures on inkstones evoke admiration and reflection on the past. Themes such as the Orchid Pavilion Gathering and the Writing Scriptures for Geese serve as inspirations while portraying the timeless literary legends of Su Shi.
Tao River inkstone with "Orchid Pavillion" motif- Song to Yuan dynasty (1271-1368)
Inkstone with figure of Su Dongpo- 17th- early 18th centuries, Qing dynasty
- Inscription by Song Luo
