The Ink Worth More Than Gold

The Art of Ink Production

Historical Context of Ink Creation

• Thousands of years ago, China developed a method to create one of the world's most valuable inks using pine tree resin.

• The ink was produced by mixing resin with tongue oil and pig fat, which were then stirred together.

• Small bowls were used to hold the mixture, where cotton wicks were lit to generate thick smoke and black soot.

• Artisans collected soot under inverted bowls over an extended period, taking months to gather sufficient amounts for ink production.

• The process involved washing the soot; impurities would sink while fine carbon particles floated on top.