Carved and inscribed green Duan ink stone. 7" X 5" There are five interesting inkstones in our May 23rd sale, lots 12, 22, 28, 38, and 41. We have done some research on inkstones, so we invite you to read below. Inkstones are an ancient Chinese innovation, used to grind, mix and draw inks when creating either calligraphic or artistic works. There are two general kinds of inkstones: Those created for their decorative, or artistic value; and others used in making inks for creating artwork or documents. Famous artists pursue the art of creating inkstones for their beauty; historic examples may be presented as tribute from one ruler to another and then sell for millions of dollars. Prices in today’s market for recently made and antique inkstones range between $50.00- $50,000.00.Inkstones are named by the region in China from where they originate; certain regions are determined by the type of stone used in the inkstones. There are four regions generally reconized: the Duan from Guandong province; the She from Anhui province; the Taohe from Gansu province; and the Chengni from Shandong.A large 12 inch green Duan inkstone“Duan” stones are the most available, and are made from volcanic tuff often variegated with other mineral stripes. Most common are those of a purple-red color, imbedded striations or inclusions add to their value. Sometimes green varieties are found, although these are ordinarily associated with the Song Dynasty Duan stones. Duan stones are further categorized by the mines from which they were excavated.“She” inkstones much like the Daun, are mostly black in color and “sprayed with sparkling markings that resemble the night sky painted in bright colors.” She stones were first used in the Tang Dynasty. They are a variety of slate, often with gold-like mineral minerals imbedded.A Taohe stone in white Jade or Jadeite“Taohe” stones are jade like in nature and come from the Tao riverbed in Gansu Providence. They tend to be rare and pricey. They also have a very low water absorption ability- an important trait for the function of an inkstone. This stone is crystalline, looking like jade, with bands of various colored striations. Often they are hard to distinguish from the Green Duan stones, but are crystalline instead.g a form of ceramics, they consist of mixed silt from the Yellow River, mixed with a binder, and fired in a kiln. These stones produce both fine ink but also have a high ornamental value. The origin of these inkstone dates from the Tang dynasty.“Chengni” inkstones are mineral based from the Yellow River. BeinThe collector can also find inkstones made from clay, bronze, iron, and porcelain.

Shipping:
We are able to pack and ship this item to an address in the United States for $40.00 via USPS Priority Mail or via FedEx Ground/Home Delivery. Tracking information will be sent to your email address. This price does not include insurance. If you require insurance you will need to ship through a third party. Please inquire about international shipping costs.