Collection: 筆 brushes

It is believed that brushes are first introduced to Japan in the early Yamato period through cultural exchanges with China.  In the era of Emperor Saga (around 812 AD), the Buddhist monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) traveled to Tang China, learned the art of brush making, and upon returning to Japan, passed on his knowledge to the general public. This is considered the beginning of brush making in Japan.

Currently, the prevalent type of fude brush used in Japan is the "Suihitsu　(written as 水筆）", also called as Mushinhitsu（written as 無芯筆), brush without a core. It has originated from the late Edo period to the Meiji period. However, it's important to note that not all brushes with bristles are of the "Suihitsu" type. There exists a distinct structure known as "Yūshihitsu" (written as 有芯筆), represented by brushes such as "Kamimaki Fude" (紙巻筆) or "Maki Fude" (巻筆).

In fact, the oldest brushes preserved in the Shosoin Repository, renowned for housing cultural treasures representing the culture of the Nara period (8th century), are all of the "Yūshinhitsu" type. This includes 18 varieties of brushes dating back to the Nara period, showcasing the cultural richness of the 8th century worldwide.