Among the four treasures of the study, the one that the ancients called gold cannot be exchanged is: ink
1. What are the four treasures of the study?
The four treasures of the study, also known as the "four wonders of the study", refer to The most important writing and painting tool in traditional Chinese culture. They include pens, ink, paper and inkstones, which are essential writing utensils for ancient literati.
The four treasures of the study are unique Chinese calligraphy and painting tools (calligraphy and painting utensils), namely pen, ink, paper, and inkstone. The name "Four Treasures of the Study" originated from the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Historically, the objects referred to by the "Four Treasures of the Study" have changed frequently. In the Southern Tang Dynasty, the "Four Treasures of the Study" specifically referred to Zhuge's brush in Xuancheng, Anhui, Li Tinggui's ink in Huizhou, Anhui, Chengxintang paper in Huizhou, Anhui, and Longwei inkstone in Wuyuan, Huizhou, Anhui.
2. Characteristics and history of ink
Ink is a black pigment made by grinding coal, pine smoke and other raw materials. Ink has rich cultural heritage and unique artistic value, and its use can be traced back to ancient China. In ancient Chinese culture, ink was widely used in calligraphy, painting, and seal making.
3. The meaning of "jinbuhuan"
Jinbuhuan is a good reputation for ink, which means that the value of ink transcends money. This is because ink has important symbolic significance in Chinese culture, representing the essence of wisdom, learning and artistic creation. Due to the importance and unique quality of ink, people often say "cannot be exchanged for gold" when describing ink.
4. Production and classification of ink
The production process of ink includes grinding raw materials, adding adhesive and water and other steps. According to different raw materials and production processes, ink can be divided into various types such as Hui ink, Hu ink, and agarwood ink. Different types of ink have different characteristics and uses, but they all carry the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture.
5. The application of ink in culture and art
Ink is an important tool in Chinese calligraphy and painting, and is also a medium for expressing emotions and thoughts. The art of Chinese calligraphy emphasizes the use of pen and ink, especially the texture, shade and strokes of ink. Ink is also widely used in seal production, calligraphy treasure production and traditional Chinese painting creation.
As one of the Four Treasures of the Study, ink has a unique status in traditional Chinese culture. Its uniqueness and value were described by the ancients as being unchangeable for gold, reflecting the important status of ink in the fields of art and culture. Ink is not only a writing tool, but also one of the important symbols of Chinese culture and art.