Longchi Inkstone

Longchi Inkstone

Longchi Inkstone is a geographically protected product.

Longchi Inkstone is a certified geographical indication trademark.

　　Longchi Inkstone: The production of Longchi Inkstone has a long history, dating back seven to eight hundred years. It is named after the "Longchi Tuan" area, the hometown of the Neo-Confucian scholar Yang Shi, where the inkstone material is sourced. The craftsmanship of making Longchi Inkstone is mostly passed down through generations and produced entirely by hand. Inkstone makers pay close attention to material selection, composition based on the stone’s features, overall layout, and carving techniques. Therefore, crafting a high-quality inkstone takes several days, which can truly be described as “meticulous craftsmanship.” Its crafted inkstones feature exquisite carvings and a rich variety of designs. So, when you visit Jiangle, how can you not bring back a beautiful Longchi Inkstone to grace your desk?

　　The "treasure of stationery," Longchi Inkstone, is known as a “finest product of Fujian inkstones” and is one of China’s famous ancient inkstones. Its production began in the Tang Dynasty and flourished in the Northern Song Dynasty. Because the Neo-Confucian scholar Yang Shi (also known as Master Guishan) preferred this renowned local inkstone for writing and teaching his son and the crown prince, it is also called “Guishan Inkstone.” It has long enjoyed its reputation for its premium material, fine craftsmanship, elegant design, and durability, and is deeply cherished by calligraphers, painters, scholars, and literati.

　　The Longchi stone used to make Longchi Inkstone comes from Jiangle. It features a fine and dense texture, moderate looseness, firmness with a touch of softness. Once made into an inkstone, it boasts a glossy and smooth finish that feels gentle to the touch, and emits a crisp, pleasant sound when struck. The ink produced on this stone is glossy and resistant to fading over time, making it regarded as a “treasured item” among scholars and artists throughout history. It is not only popular domestically but also highly favored by overseas merchants, selling well across Southeast Asia. Master Zhang Wangjin, the third-generation inheritor of Longchi Inkstone and the only skilled inkstone craftsman in Jiangle County, produces highly sought-after Longchi Inkstones. His works won a gold award at the 2nd Tianjin Folk Art Expo, part of the China International Folk Art Expo.

　　The protected geographical indication area for Longchi Inkstone covers the entire administrative region of current Jiangle County, Fujian Province.