Tao inkslab is one of "China's Four Famous Inkslabs", the other three being the Duaninkslab from Guangdong, She inkstone from Anhui and Chengni inkstone from Shanxi.

The history of making Tao inkslab dates back to over 1,300 years. It was first made in a region now known as Yaoyan township, Zhuoni county, Gannan prefecture, Gansu province. Tao inkslab is known domestically and globally for its viridity, sturdiness, and refined artistic appeal.

When knuckled, no sound is made by the inkslab. Moreover, it has high ink-generation efficiency and low wearing of brush, as well as long ink retention and little drying up. For many centuries, Tao inkslab has been treasured by monarch and officials, scholars, households, and antique collectors. Over the years, numerous men of letter, scholars and artists have written in praise about Tao inkslab.