|
Traditional Chinese stationery is more popularly known in
this country as ‘Four Treasures of the Study’, namely, writing brush, ink
stick, ink slab and paper. Through the ages the Chinese have developed
unique techniques for the making of these “treasures”, resulting in
countless products with superb quality and distinct local styles. Among the
more famous products are xuan paper produced in Jingxian County, Anhui
Province; Huizhou-style ink sticks in Shexian County, Anhui Province;
writing brushes in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province; and ink slabs produced in
Zhaoqing of Guangdong Province, Shexian County of Anhui Province, Wuyuan of
Jiangxi Province. Famous ink slabs include those made in Shandong Province
and by the Taohe River of Gansu Province, and Helan stone. Among all the
souvenirs available on the Chinese market, the ‘Four Treasures of the Study’
are a fitting symbol of traditional Chinese culture. |
