Classified as one of the “four treasures of study”, calligraphy ink stones are considered to be artworks within themselves. Used to grind ink for calligraphic writing, ink stones posses an elegant and magical quality which leads many people finding themselves drawn to collecting them not only for grinding ink but also as part of their art collection. The ink stone is often a proud ornament seated upon all calligraphers’ work stations.

The Chengni ink stone is classed as one of the four top ink stones in China. It is made from silt collected from the Yellow River in the Western He'nan province. Mud is collected from the river and filtered for only the silt. It is then mixed with binding materials and dried. Artistic carvings are added before being fired in the kiln. The length of time the stone is fired in the kiln and the different burning methods results in the various strong colours seen in Chengni ink stones. The end result is a magnificent ink stone which not only creates perfected ink but is a cherished ornament.

Throughout the centuries ink stones have been honoured and collected by scholars throughout Asia. The origin of the Chengni ink stone is not precisely known, however it is believed to have originated from either the Shaanxi, He’nan or Shandong Provinces. It was well established as a part of the four treasures by the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and mainly produced in Xinjiang County of the Shannxi province. Many would come from other provinces to purchase this specific ink stone. It was often given to nobles and royalty as tributes and gifts. Unfortunately, as calligraphy became less popular in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), ink stones lost much of their value and were neglected for many years.

Today, Chengni ink stones are appreciated more for their sentimental art value and are highly regarded as traditional art objects. However, authentic Chengni ink stones are becoming increasingly hard to purchase as it is becoming extremely hard to obtain the raw material needed for its construction. Also, the skills necessary for making Chengni ink stones are slowly dying as young craftsmen willing to carry on the trade are becoming difficult to find.

Chengni ink stones are perfect stone mortars for creating the needed consistency of ink. Its flat surface is neither too hot nor cold creating a smooth balance for thick ink. The ink will neither dry up in summer nor freeze in winter. The art designs carved into each ink stone are powerful and often encourage and inspire calligraphers in their art. It is said that each Chengni ink stone possesses the essence of its previous calligrapher making ancient ink stones highly sought after.

Ink stones have a deep cultural connection to traditional China. They are considered the soul of a scholar’s library and an appreciated art form. Chengni ink stones are a national treasure that add spirituality and a sense of cultural heritage to any art collection or home.