Choosing the ink stone

The choice of inkstone, or "砚台" (yàn tái), is an essential aspect of Chinese calligraphy, as it influences the preparation and quality of the ink.

Duan's Inkstone (端砚 - Duān Yàn)

Characteristics: Made from stones from the Duan region, this stone is known for its fine texture and ability to produce rich, smooth ink.
Usage: Ideal for calligraphy styles requiring precise and clean strokes, such as the regular style "楷书" (Kǎi Shū).

She Inkstone (歙砚 - Shè Yàn)

Characteristics: Made from stones from the She region, this stone has a rougher texture and is prized for its ability to produce thick, rich ink.
Usage: Well suited for bolder and more expressive calligraphy styles, such as the cursive style "草书" (Cǎo Shū).

Tao Inkstone (洮砚 - Táo Yàn)

Characteristics: Made from stones from the Tao region, this stone is known for its soft texture and ability to produce fine, delicate ink.
Usage: Used for calligraphy styles requiring fine, delicate strokes.

Chengni Inkstone (澄泥砚 - Chéng Ní Yàn)

Features: Made from clay, this stone is lightweight and provides a smooth surface for grinding ink.
Usage: Versatile, it is suitable for various calligraphy styles and is often used by beginners.

Stone Texture: The texture of the stone influences how the ink is ground. A fine texture produces a smoother ink, while a rougher texture can produce a thicker ink.
Absorption Capacity: A good ink stone should have good absorption capacity to control the amount of water and ink, thus providing high precision in ink preparation.
Durability: A high-quality inkstone should be durable and resistant to wear and tear, especially if used frequently.