Jouto

Jouto is a Japanese class of ink or liquid a medium primarily used in traditional Japanese art and calligraphy. The term jouto is derived from the Japanese words 'yu' meaning liquid and 'toge' meaning ink. Historically, jouto was made from a mixture of soot, animal bone ash, and other substances such as gelatin or egg whites. The mixture was then ground and mixed with water to achieve the desired viscosity and color.

The use of jouto dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), when it was used in traditional calligraphy, known as Shittō. During the Edo period (1603-1867 CE), jouto became an essential component of Japanese art, including sumi-e (ink painting) and gyotaku (ink imprinting). Jouto was also used in traditional Japanese ink-based crafts, such as washi paper making and Noh mask painting.

The characteristics of jouto include its dark, rich color, and distinctive gleam on paper. The viscosity of jouto is also noteworthy, as it can be varied to achieve different effects in calligraphy and painting. In traditional Japanese calligraphy, jouto is applied to the stroke of the brush, where the ink flows smoothly and consistently onto the paper.

The production of jouto has changed over time, with modern manufacturers now using a mixture of synthetic and natural materials. However, traditional jouto makers continue to use the original recipes and techniques, making jouto a unique and highly valued medium in Japanese art and culture.