【NARA】BOTANJISHI, a sumi ink stick ideal both for calligraphy and sumie painting

Nara Sumi ink, renowned for its finely uniform, deep, and lustrous black color and excellent writing/drawing feel, enjoys unwavering popularity. It's no wonder that over 90% of solid Sumi ink sticks used in Japan are produced in Nara Prefecture. Its history dates back to 806 AD when Kukai brought the Sumi ink manufacturing method back from Tang China along with brushes. He began producing Sumi ink at Nitaibo in Kofuku-ji Temple for use in transcribing sutras and writing Buddhist scriptures.

In Nara, KINKOEN continues to handcraft high-quality solid Sumi ink sticks using traditional methods passed down through generations. While preserving a 150-year history, Kinko-en is also gaining attention for pursuing new forms of Sumi ink. We are pleased to offer Yuenboku (oil soot Sumi ink) manufactured by Kinko-en.

Nara Sumi Ink made from sesame oil soot by KINKOEN : BOTANJISHI
BOTANJISHI features a moderate bleed and a lustrous black with delicate light shades. The beautiful carvings characteristic of Nara Sumi ink are also one of its charms. On the back, a lion, the king of beasts, is depicted sleeping peacefully beneath peony flowers, emphasizing the special meaning of protection and tranquility.

The only thing the king of beasts fears is a pest that breeds and multiplies within its fur, even eating into its flesh. This pest dislikes the night dew that drips from peony flowers. Therefore, the lion sleeps peacefully beneath the peony flowers. In other words, beneath the peony flowers signifies a haven for the lion.

We hope that grinding this Sumi ink while contemplating its meaning will enrich your calligraphy and ink painting time even further.

Product Details: BOTANJISHI
Type: Sesame oil soot sumi ink (胡麻油煙墨)
Sized: approx. 15g