Xixian Inkstone

Xixian Inkstone

Xixian Inkstone is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Xikou boasts picturesque scenery; Xishí stones are imbued with mystery and wonder; Xixian inkstones are exquisitely beautiful. Recently, the Guofan Xixian Inkstones produced by Shuangfeng County Guofan Xixian Inkstone Craft Co., Ltd. were recognized as “China’s Most Collectible Cultural Handicraft” by the China (Cross-Strait Three Regions) Tourism Exchange Promotion Association and the China Brand Promotion and Communication Center. Xixian inkstones—these time-honored treasures of Hunan culture—have been revitalized under the dedicated efforts of several local farmer-entrepreneurs in Xikou Village, Xingzipu Town, Shuangfeng County, shining with renewed brilliance.

　　　　The farmer-entrepreneur who pioneered the development of Xixian inkstones is named Cao Changgui. Since childhood, he had heard elders speak of the Lianshui River near Xikou Village, where a natural ancient fossil stone—Xishí stone—is abundant. This rare stone is an excellent material for carving inkstones. The resulting Xixian inkstones are sturdy in texture, smooth in grain, and form a strong bond with ink, staying moist for long periods. They do not produce ink scum or damage brushes, ensuring smooth and effortless writing. In cold winter, simply exhaling on them can melt ice to grind ink—an extraordinary feature. In the spring of 2003, by chance, Cao Changgui and others watched a CCTV program about Zhaoqing, the “Inkstone Capital,” where Duan inkstones are produced and exported worldwide. They realized that inkstones had evolved beyond their traditional role as tools for grinding and holding ink, becoming new cultural handicrafts that blend artistry, aesthetics, collectibility, and practicality. A high-quality inkstone could easily fetch thousands or even tens of thousands of yuan, becoming a flagship industry driving the local economy. After watching the program, Cao Changgui and his companions were deeply moved, and the idea of developing Xixian inkstones—at all costs—was born.

　　　　They began researching extensively, gathering information, and conducting rudimentary feasibility studies. Their efforts paid off when they discovered records of Xixian inkstones in the Xiangxiang County Annals from the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, housed in the Xiangxiang Library. Later, they found poems praising Xixian inkstones in the poetry collection *Nancun Caotang Shicao* by Deng Xianhe, a master of Hunan’s academic revival. The master referred to Xixian inkstones as “a rare treasure among jewels,” which greatly inspired Cao Changgui and his team. In 2004, Cao Changgui, Liu Xizhong, and others made several trips to Zhaoqing, the Inkstone Capital, to learn from local artisans. Upon returning, they raised over one million yuan to purchase factory space, acquire equipment, and hire skilled inkstone carvers. At the end of the year, with great anticipation, they transported their first batch of Xixian inkstones to Zhaoqing for expert evaluation. The experts examined the stones carefully and were astonished: the shipment included at least forty to fifty varieties. The inkstones varied in shape—round, square, flat, or upright—and in color—crimson purple, pale blue, dark brown, deep green, and more. Some were carved with clouds and dragons, others with red phoenixes, as well as pine trees, bamboo, waterfalls, streams, and quaint bridges over villages. The stones felt weighty, smooth to the touch, and produced a crisp ringing sound when tapped or suspended. The experts were amazed: “Do you have such high-quality inkstone material here too? Look at the texture, color, feel, and craftsmanship—how is it any inferior to our Zhaoqing inkstones?”

　　　　The reputation of Xixian inkstones grew steadily. In 2005, the company achieved 300,000 yuan in output value; in 2006, over one million yuan; in 2007, over three million yuan; and in 2008, they projected over five million yuan. Renowned oil painter Professor Luo Erchun from the Central Academy of Fine Arts personally inscribed the company’s name. Former Hunan Provincial Party Secretary Xiong Qingquan proudly wrote, “Xikou produces treasured inkstones; Hunan fosters exceptional talent.” Taiwanese collector Li Youzeng sincerely praised, “Duan inkstones from Duanzhou are the best under heaven, but Xixian inkstones from Xikou surpass Duanzhou’s.” The CCTV program *Traveling Through China* came to Xikou specifically to produce a feature on Xixian inkstones. Faced with such rare accolades and promising market prospects, Cao Changgui and his team remained calm and composed, avoiding arrogance. Currently, they are acquiring land to build a new factory and plan to further expand production. Shuangfeng County has also included Xixian inkstone development as a key project under its “Culture-Driven County Development” initiative. Their next goal is to establish Xixian inkstones as a renowned cultural product of Hunan, celebrated both in China and abroad.