Treasures stand the test of time

German expressionism on view in Shanghai

Narrative in oil

Four treasures in the study

Writing brush

Called maobi in Chinese, this means a pen made of hair. The oldest brush discovered so far dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). Brushes are generally made from animal hair, such as that taken from the goat, black rabbit and weasel. Brush handles are usually made from bamboo, wood, porcelain and other precious materials.

The hair of different animals will offer users different writing experiences and generate distinct brush strokes. Every brush has its specific elasticity, hardness, thickness, length, and ink absorbency.

Different brushes are used for different styles of calligraphy and painting. It’s widely believed the best brushes are made in Huzhou, Zhejiang province.

Ink stick

The original ink comes from nature, such as materials burnt by lightning, octopus ink, and graphite. Later, artificial ink was developed during the Qin and Han dynasties (221 BC- AD 220).

Modern ink sticks are generally made from a mixture of soot and resin. Soot is collected, then mixed with glue. The best ink sticks are finely grained and engraved with calligraphy and carvings.

The ink sticks held in highest regard are known as huimo, or ink sticks made in Anhui province. Containing musk, borneol and other precious aromatics of Chinese medicine, the ink sticks are not used for writing anymore, but have become collectors’ items in themselves.

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