I'm Minista, a creator of inspiring suzuri (inkstones). I make inkstones that make grinding ink enjoyable and make writing and painting even more fun. This is an Amehata inkstone, tuned (re-carved and maintained) in the Minista style. The back of the inkstone is engraved with "Amehata Shuhou Saku" (Made by Shuhou of Amehata). It's a Taishi inkstone made by Shuhou of Houryuukaku, an inkstone workshop in Yamanashi. It's made in the shape of a hand. Taishi inkstones are common in Duan inkstones, but rare in Japanese inkstones. This is due to the difference in stone properties, as it's very difficult to make them from slate-type stones. They tend to split easily horizontally. Therefore, the difficulty of making them is completely different from that of Tang inkstones, and consequently, they are rarely made. Houryuukaku was among the best in Japan in terms of inkstone making techniques at the time, so it's likely that a veteran craftsman could make them. I think he was a veteran, perhaps a factory manager class. The ink release and color are very good, and the ink spreads well. It grinds ink comfortably. It can be used for both thick and light ink, and you can write good lines. It's a good inkstone for both oil soot ink and pine soot ink. It's good for kana (up to half-cut paper), kanji (up to half-paper), and sumi-e (ink wash painting). Since it's rare, it's best to use it in front of people. If someone says, "I've seen something like that in China," ask them if it was made with such Japanese-style care. Size: 15.3 x 9.4 x 5.6 cm Weight: Over 1kg (approx. 1.2kg) * If you purchase ink with the inkstone, I'll discount the ink by 300 yen per stick. * All shipments use Mercari shipping with transportation insurance. #Minista Inkstones (Inspiring Inkstones) ↑ Click here for a list of inkstones. It's easier to see if you check "Only items for sale." Inkstone Tuning: This is the maintenance that improves the performance of ink release, ink color, ink spread, ink repellency, and the feel of grinding ink, so that you can write and paint well. People often say that they feel like they've become better at calligraphy and painting. Ink consumption will be reduced to about 2/3 to 1/2. Calligraphy Calligraphy tools Suzuri (inkstone) Kana Kanji Sutra copying Japanese painting Sumi-e (ink wash painting) Ink painting Japanese inkstone Amehata Brush Ink Paper