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Cultural Symbol of China: Four Treasures of the Study (English Edition): The Story of Brush, Ink, Paper & Inkstone

Cultural Symbol of China: Four Treasures of the Study (English Edition): The Story of Brush, Ink, Paper & Inkstone

Meet the Four Tools That Shaped Chinese Writing and Painting — Their Origins, Craft, Famous Types Like Xuan Paper and Duan Inkstone, and Stories of the Scholars Who Loved Them
This book introduces the four tools that sat on every Chinese scholar’s desk: the brush, the ink, the paper, and the inkstone. It explains where they came from, how they were made, and why certain kinds—Xuan paper, Duan inkstone, Hu brush, Hui ink—became famous. Along the way, it tells stories of the writers and artists who used them, from the calligrapher who loved ink so much he was said to eat it, to Su Dongpo, who was crazy about inkstones. It also looks at how these tools are still being made today. No art or craft background needed.
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Detail

For centuries, the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone have been more than mere tools—they are the soul of Chinese art and literature. In Chinese culture, a scholar’s finest companions are his “Four Treasures of Study.” The Four Treasures of Study: The Elegant Pursuits of Brushes, Ink, Paper, and Inkstone takes you on an evocative journey to uncover the secrets behind these timeless instruments.

This beautifully crafted book, part of the esteemed “Chinese Cultural Symbols” series, explores the origins and evolution of the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone. Author Xi Xiaoli draws upon years of on-site research to vividly detail the creation of iconic products like Xuan paper from Jing County and the renowned Hu brushes and Hui ink.

What’s Inside:

  • Historical Insights: Trace the “past and present” of these cultural treasures, from their ancient origins to their modern revival.

  • Craftsmanship Unveiled: Discover the exquisite techniques behind authentic products like Duan inkstones and Chengni inkstones.

  • Literati Stories: Relive fascinating anecdotes of historical figures, including the legendary calligrapher Wang Xizhi and the ink-obsessed poet Su Dongpo.

  • Modern Legacy: Explore how the four treasures continue to inspire and are being preserved in today’s world, even showcased at the Shanghai World Expo

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