The four elements of Chinese calligraphy are the four tools needed to create it. The brush, rice paper, ink, and ink stone are the four components. Chinese calligraphy is a skill that takes a long time to master. In fact, even seasoned calligraphers, like seasoned artists, are constantly improving and tweaking their calligraphy.
In order to achieve the kind of sweeping lines seen in the print, calligraphy must be done with a brush. Brushes for writing Chinese calligraphy are made from very specific materials. The brushes’ handles are almost entirely made of bamboo wood, which gives them a light but durable feel. Hair from horses, sheep, and occasionally weasels is used to make the brush. Hair from a family member’s baby is sometimes used to make homemade brushes. Baby hair is not only soft and fine, giving the brush a distinct quality, but it is also a way to honor a family member’s child.
The rice paper is the second component of Chinese calligraphy. Rice paper is a type of parchment traditionally used to print Chinese calligraphy. Rice is a common crop in China, and it is used for a variety of purposes outside of the kitchen, including paper. Rice paper is very thin, and it absorbs the ink used to write calligraphy.
The ink and the ink stone are the third and fourth elements of Chinese calligraphy, respectively. Calligraphy is usually written in black ink. The ink is poured into an ink stone, which the calligrapher can use right away. The ink stone is simply a rock or earthenware bowl for the ink.
People sometimes practice calligraphy by writing on rock, pavement, or another surface that will dry quickly and will not be damaged by water instead of ink. This is a great way to get some practice in without wasting any ink or paper. When the water dries, it sometimes leaves a faint outline of the calligraphy on the stone or pavement. These outlines can help calligraphers figure out what they need to improve their calligraphy.