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?
Preserving the Inkstone
An inkstone should never go unwashed for a day. Clearing the inkstone with clear water not only removes impurities but also nourishes the stone. To prevent the inkstone from drying out, it is advisable to store it in a dedicated inkstone box made of materials such as lacquer or wood rather than metal. These boxes are often custom-made to fit the inkstone precisely. Furthermore, for cherished inkstones that have been appreciated and examined, much have been passed down even without a camera. Drawing, making rubbings, and adding written descriptions can create enduring records, preserving their beauty and significance for an eternity.
Xipi lacquer box and wooden case with banana-white inkstone- 19th century, Qing dynasty
Imperial Catalog of Ancient Inkstones- Qianlong reign (1736-1795), Qing dynasty
- Compiled by Yu Minzhong et al., Qing dynasty
- Qing court illustrated manuscript in red-lined columns
"Shih-han" refined clay inkstone- Ming dynasty (1368-1644)
- Inscription by Zhao Yikuang
