Chinese calligraphy has existed for a millenia. Proper execution of Chinese calligraphy requires an understanding of the structure of Chinese characters and much practice. There are specialized brushes, papers, inks and painting styles related to Chinese calligraphy one must become familiar with to master this beautiful, ancient art form.
Inks
Traditional Chinese calligraphy inks are made from sticks of solid ink. By using a mixing stone, adding a little water, then rubbing the solid ink on the bottom of the ink stone until the desired amount of ink has been released, an almost unlimited range of hues and intensities can be created. Although liquid inks have been produced in recent years, traditionalists still prefer the sticks because of their unlimited shelf, stability and ease of transportation.
Brushes
Chinese calligraphy brushes come in a variety of sizes and are often sold in sets of varying sizes to ensure a calligrapher will have a brush size suited to his writing purpose. Chinese calligraphy brushes usually have bamboo handles with sheep and pony hair bristles. In some cases, cow horn or bone is used on higher end calligraphy brushes.
Papers
Although rice papers are more traditional, in recent times a number of papers have come into use for Chinese calligraphy. Other types of traditional calligraphy papers include paper made from bamboo, bamboo itself, hemp, rice and wheat. The most desirable Chinese calligraphy paper is made from tartar wingceltis in Anhuei province.
Hand Position
Chinese calligraphy is written with a bent wrist. The palm is cupped and the brush is held between the index, middle finger and thumb with stabilization provided by the ring finger. The pinky doesn't touch the brush. The brush is held vertically perpendicular to the paper, not at an angle as with European scripts and calligraphy. When creating Chinese calligraphy, the entire arm moves, creating strokes and styles unique to each calligrapher.
Stroke Order
For Chinese characters to be properly written, the exact dictionary correct stroke order must be followed. Following this order is the most efficient use of movement and results in individually unique characteristics, such as the semi-connection of particular character strokes or radicals.
