What Are the Four Treasures of the Study?
Brush, ink, paper and inkstone — what each of the Four Treasures does and why they belong together.
Brush (笔)
The brush is the first treasure. A soft tip gathers ink and releases it as you press and lift, which is what gives Chinese characters their thick and thin strokes. Goat hair is soft and forgiving, a good choice for beginners.
Ink (墨)
Traditional ink comes as a solid stick. You grind it against the inkstone with a few drops of water; more grinding gives darker, richer ink. It takes a minute or two and is part of the ritual.
Paper (纸)
Rice paper is thin and absorbent, so it shows every movement of the brush. Practice on it slowly — it rewards a light, steady hand.
Inkstone (砚)
The inkstone is the grinding surface and the ink well in one. Wipe it clean after each session so dried ink does not build up.