China Brush: A Traditional Tool for Painting and Calligraphy
China brush, also known as Chinese brush or writing brush, is a type of brush used for painting and calligraphy in China and other East Asian countries. It is one of the four treasures of the study, along with ink, paper, and inkstone.To get more news about china brush, you can visit herbal-hall.com official website.
## History and Culture
The origin of the china brush can be traced back to the Shang dynasty (1600-1046 BC), when animal hair was used to make brushes for writing on oracle bones. The earliest surviving brushes date from the Warring States period (475-221 BC), and were made of rabbit hair and bamboo. The brush gradually evolved into a sophisticated tool, with different types of hair, shapes, and sizes for different purposes and styles.
The china brush is not only a practical tool, but also a symbol of culture and art. It represents the spirit and aesthetics of Chinese civilization, and reflects the personality and mood of the user. The china brush is often regarded as an extension of the hand and the mind, and is used to express one's thoughts and emotions through strokes and movements. The china brush is also a subject of appreciation and collection, as some brushes are made by famous craftsmen or used by famous artists.
## Structure and Types
The china brush consists of three parts: the hair, the shaft, and the handle. The hair is the most important part, as it determines the quality and function of the brush. The hair can be divided into three categories: soft, hard, and mixed. Soft hair brushes are made of animal hair such as goat, rabbit, or squirrel, and are suitable for painting flowers, birds, and landscapes. Hard hair brushes are made of animal hair such as wolf, weasel, or horse, and are suitable for painting figures, rocks, and bamboo. Mixed hair brushes are made of a combination of soft and hard hair, and are suitable for both painting and calligraphy.
The shaft is the part that connects the hair and the handle, and is usually made of metal, horn, or wood. The shaft can be decorated with patterns, inscriptions, or seals, to enhance the beauty and value of the brush. The handle is the part that is held by the user, and is usually made of bamboo, wood, or lacquer. The handle can be of various lengths, diameters, and shapes, depending on the preference and style of the user.
The china brush can be classified into different types according to the shape and size of the hair. The most common types are:
- Round brush: The hair is round and pointed, and can be used for both painting and calligraphy. It is the most versatile and widely used type of brush.
- Flat brush: The hair is flat and wide, and can be used for painting large areas, such as mountains, water, and clouds. It can also be used for creating special effects, such as splashing or rubbing.
- Orchid brush: The hair is long and thin, and can be used for painting delicate and graceful lines, such as orchids, grass, and insects. It can also be used for writing small and elegant characters.
- Hook brush: The hair is curved and hooked, and can be used for painting sharp and angular lines, such as rocks, pine trees, and dragons. It can also be used for writing bold and powerful characters.
