What is the inkstone in the pen, ink and paper inkstone?

Ink stone is a tool for artistic creation such as calligraphy and painting, and it is an important part of ancient Chinese cultural heritage. The history of China inkstone can be traced back to the Warring States period, and the production technology of inkstone can be traced back to the earlier Shang and Zhou Dynasties. In the traditional culture of China, inkstone is known as one of the "Four Treasures of the Study". Like ink, pen and paper, inkstone is a necessary thing for painting and calligraphy. Because of its unique production materials and technology, inkstone presents different styles and forms in different times and regions. Among them, the oldest inkstone is bluestone inkstone, which is made of limestone or sandstone. Its shape is often rectangular or round, and its surface presents various natural patterns. Four-legged inkstone appeared in the Tang Dynasty, with four legs at the bottom, which can be fixed on several tables and is convenient to use. In Song Dynasty, a kind of flowing water inkstone appeared, and its grinding holes were irregular comb-shaped, which could obtain beautiful effects of sound and water waves when grinding water.

The material of inkstone is also ever-changing. In addition to the traditional bluestone inkstone, there are also inkstones made of Himalayan rocks, which are usually more expensive. In addition, there are inkstones made of clam shells, olive stones and agates. These inkstones usually need to go through many complicated processes when they are made, which is very difficult to make.

The use of inkstone has always been an important part of China literati's life, and it can be said that it is one of their daily necessities. In addition, inkstone has far-reaching significance in China culture. The inkstone is often regarded as a symbol of knowledge and culture, and literati will put the inkstone in the most eye-catching position to show their knowledge and taste. Therefore, inkstone is also regarded as the identity symbol and cultural symbol of literati.

There are also some myths and legends and folklore in the inkstone. Legend has it that a Buddhist was so jealous that he turned all his words into good words, so he got an inkstone engraved with the words "Benevolence is the world". There is also a legend that the manufacturing process of inkstone has been solved by the gods in the Heavenly Palace, and every process has the participation of gods.

In a word, inkstone plays an irreplaceable role in China culture. It is not only a tool for painting and calligraphy, but also a representative of China culture and even humanistic spirit. With the development of modern science and technology, the use of inkstone will be affected to some extent, but its spiritual connotation and cultural value will be passed down forever.