Sumi

Sumi refers to traditional black ink used in East Asian calligraphy and painting, especially in Japan. It is typically sold as solid ink sticks made from soot bound with animal glue, though liquid bottled sumi ink is also common. The sticks are ground on a flat stone (ink stone, suzuri) with water to produce ink of varying shades from deep black to pale gray.

Sumi-e, or suiboku-ga, is the Japanese ink-wash painting style that uses diluted sumi ink to achieve tonal variation. Brushwork and the control of moisture determine form and expression, often with minimal color and emphasis on spontaneous, expressive strokes. The practice is closely associated with Zen Buddhism and East Asian aesthetics.

Materials and technique: The primary tools are brush, ink stone, ink (ground from sticks), and paper such as washi or xuan paper. The ink's density is managed by grinding duration, water amount, and brush pressure. In addition to traditional solid ink sticks, many artists use bottled liquid sumi or premixed inks for convenience.

History and cultural context: Sumi originates from charcoal soot used in East Asian ink traditions. The Japanese term sumi denotes this ink, while sumi-e names the monochrome painting style that matured in Japan under Chinese influence and Zen culture from the medieval period onward. The aesthetic stresses simplicity, suggestion, and the idea of capturing the spirit of the subject rather than exact likeness.

Modern use: Sumi remains central in calligraphy (shodō) and painting in East Asia. It is used by hobbyists and professional artists alike, and commercial brands offer a range of grades from student to professional. The colorfastness and archival properties depend on the ink composition and paper.