inkstick

An inkstick is a solid pigment block, typically made from soot or lampblack mixed with a binder such as animal glue or gelatin, and often scented with incense or flavored with other substances. Inksticks are a traditional medium used in East Asian calligraphy and ink wash painting, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. To use an inkstick, it is ground with a small amount of water on an inkstone. This process produces liquid ink suitable for use with a brush. The consistency of the ink can be adjusted by adding more or less water.

The quality of an inkstick can vary greatly depending on the materials used and the craftsmanship. High-quality inksticks are often made from aged pine soot or the soot from burning tung oil. The binder is crucial for the ink's flow and adhesion. Historically, inksticks were highly prized possessions, and their production was a specialized art. They are often elaborately decorated with carvings, calligraphy, or paintings. The process of grinding ink can be seen as a meditative practice, preparing the artist for the act of creation. Inksticks are a fundamental component of traditional East Asian art, embodying centuries of cultural heritage and artistic tradition.