Social Life of Inkstones: Artisans and Scholars in Early Qing China

The Social Life of Inkstones explores the hidden history and cultural significance of the inkstone, tracing its path from quarry to desk and revealing its role in elite masculinity and the values of wen in China, Korea, and Japan. It highlights the craftswoman Gu Erniang and the collaboration between craftsmen and scholars that created a new social order.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2021
Publisher: University of Washington Press

An inkstone, a small polished stone used for grinding ink, is a multifaceted object that has played a significant role in various aspects of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese culture for over a millennium. It is not only a tool for writing but also a work of art, a symbol of friendship or diplomatic relations, and a medium for carving texts and images. While the inkstone has been deeply intertwined with elite masculinity and the values of wen (culture, literature, and civility) in these countries, it remains largely unknown in the Western world.

To shed light on the hidden history and cultural significance of the inkstone, the book "The Social Life of Inkstones" delves into its journey from quarry to desk. It examines imperial workshops in the Forbidden City, Duan quarries in Guangdong, commercial workshops in Suzhou, and collectors' homes in Fujian. Through these investigations, the book reveals how the collaboration between craftsmen and scholars created a new social order in which the traditional hierarchy of head over hand was challenged.

One of the key figures highlighted in the book is Gu Erniang, a craftswoman who played a significant role in the refinement of inkstone-making between the 1680s and 1730s. Gu Erniang's work showcased the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic expression that could be achieved through the art of inkstone-making. Her contributions to the field helped to elevate the status of inkstone-making from a mere utilitarian object to a work of art that was appreciated by both scholars and commoners.

The book also explores the various types of inkstones that have been produced over the centuries. From simple, unadorned stones to intricately carved and decorated pieces, inkstones have been used to express a wide range of artistic styles and cultural values. The book highlights the importance of inkstones in the transmission of knowledge and the preservation of cultural heritage.

In addition to its cultural significance, the inkstone has also had a significant impact on the environment. The quarrying of stone for inkstones has led to the destruction of many natural habitats and the displacement of local communities. However, the book also highlights the efforts of some artisans and conservationists to promote sustainable and ethical practices in the production of inkstones.

Overall, "The Social Life of Inkstones" is a fascinating and informative book that sheds light on the hidden history and cultural significance of the inkstone. It highlights the collaboration between craftsmen and scholars, the refinement of inkstone-making, and the impact of the inkstone on the environment. By exploring the various types of inkstones and their cultural significance, the book encourages us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of this small but significant object.

Weight: 885g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780295749174