Ink treasures

Inkstones are one of the four treasures of Chinese scholars. It was during the mid — and late periods of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) that the earliest known inkstone came into shape. This historic type of stationery is not only a useful tool but also, when made with exquisite technique, is considered by intellectuals as a symbol of cultural accumulation and taste in art.

Well of Ink, a long-term exhibition at Nanjing Museum, Jiangsu province, shows dozens of vintage inkstones to highlight the role of this small piece of artistry in the development of Chinese cultural tradition.

Highlighted objects include a gilt bronze inkstone case that was unearthed in 1969 from an Eastern Han tomb in Xuzhou, Jiangsu. Decorated with colorful mineral stones, it is believed to be crafted in the shape of a crouching toad, which was viewed at the time as an animal with powers to fight against evil, prolong people's life and bring fortune. And it has wings to reflect Han people's wish for immortality.

Inkstones from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) on display show a trend of intellectuals at the time who were also enthusiastic designers, makers, collectors and critics, and their high taste further promoted the making of this intricate piece of handicraft.

9 am-5 pm, closed on Mondays. 321 Zhongshan Dong Road, Xuanwu district, Nanjing, Jiangsu province.025-8480-7923.