在中國,筆、墨、紙、硯(ink stone),即人們所說的“文房四寶”(Four Treasures of the Study),在中華文明的傳承中發揮了重要的作用。“文房四寶”品類繁多,其選材制作也不斷趨于精美、完善。“文房四寶”不僅有實用價值,它們本身也是供人們觀賞的藝術品。在當今時代,使用“文房四寶”進行學習、寫作的人越來越少了,但是,在中國的書法(calligraphy)、繪畫以及收藏活動中,它們仍起著不可替代的作用。
In China, the “Four Treasures of the Study”, namely, writing brush, ink stick, paper and ink stone, have played an important role in inheriting Chinese civilization. There are a large variety of the “ Four Treasures of the Study”. The selecting of materials and making process have become increasingly delicate and perfect. They have not only the value of practical use, but also the art value for the public to appreciate. In contemporary times, the “Four Treasures of the Study” have been used less and less for study or writing, but they are still playing an irreplaceable role in calligraphy, painting and collection activities.