Ink Sticks

Ink sticks are solid blocks of ink used traditionally in East Asian calligraphy and brush painting. They are made from soot, animal glue, and sometimes fragrance or colorants, molded into a firm shape. To use, the artist grinds the ink stick with a small amount of water on an ink stone, creating liquid ink. This method allows for control over ink consistency, intensity, and flow. Ink sticks are valued for their rich, deep black color, portability, and the craftsmanship involved in their creation, making them both functional tools and objects of artistic appreciation.