Seated Scholar Ink Stick

c. 1850
$180 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 2.25" D: 1.5" H: 3.75"
Materials
Ink
Steel
Collection #
CMKH116
Estimated Shipping
$20

Along with the inkstone, brush, and paper, the inkstick was essential to a scholar’s practice of calligraphy and brush painting. Made of soot and animal glue that was pressed into a mold to harden, these solid inks were sometimes infused with incense or essences of clove, sandalwood or other fragrant oils. To reconstitute the ink, the scholar would grind the inkstick against an inkstone with a small quantity of water to produce liquid ink. Qing Dynasty scholars surrounded themselves by beauty and inspiration; even the most humble of their tools was no exception. Masterfully shaped into a cartouche, this example features a scholar sitting with his books over a rushing river. Each time the scholar put the stick to use, he would contemplate the finely wrought image.

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Andrea Goldman | Andrea Goldman Design

“Over the years, I’ve incorporated many pieces from PAGODA RED into my designs. Not only can they balance new furnishings (and often new construction) by feeling more established, but the pieces emanate a sense of rich history, often leaving you wondering where they were in a previous life. These beautiful pieces carefully hand-selected by the team at PAGODA RED, coupled with their unbelievable customer service, make them a must-have for any home.”

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