Minista, a creator of inspiring suzuri (inkstones). I create inkstones that make writing and painting more enjoyable, and make the time spent grinding ink a pleasure. This is a brand new inkstone, but it's a Nakamura inkstone (Soryu Stone Inkstone) that has been tuned by Minista (reworking the ink well and ink surface to improve the inkstone's performance). It was made by Issui Sakamoto of Issui Kobo in Kochi Prefecture. The inscription "Issui Saku" (Made by Issui) is on the back of the inkstone. This inkstone was purchased directly from Issui Kobo. I call it a "Production Area Support Inkstone" (see below). It's a rare, gate-shaped, vertically long inkstone for a Japanese inkstone. Issui-san seems to like making inkstones in the style of Tang Dynasty inkstones. The stone has a slightly bluish tint, and the stone patterns are well-organized, giving it a good atmosphere. While flashy stone patterns can be interesting, the stone quality is better without them. The ink color is outstanding, and the ink is tuned to allow for excellent ink flow and gradation. The ink color and flow of the sumi ink you are currently using will change. I don't think there is another inkstone that can achieve the same level of performance. And yet, the ink grinds exceptionally well. It's an amazing inkstone. For kana calligraphy, the ink flow, dark ink, and the ink color of the strokes are outstanding. I think you can create thin, strong lines and nuanced shades. For ink wash painting, you can create strong lines and beautiful multi-stage gradations. For kanji, the black ink will be clear and vibrant. "The grinding feels good, and the ink color is wonderful. The movement of the brush, or rather, the way it settles and the ease of lubrication is surprising. The brush follows your intentions!! It's easy to make changes. When you rotate the brush and want to make a fine line, the tip of the brush comes together beautifully. Also, the ink flow of the brushstrokes is beautiful." This is an inkstone that will change the level of your work. Size: 21.8 x 9.8 x 2.3 cm Weight: 1 kg or more (approx. 1.3 kg) * If you purchase ink with the inkstone, you will receive a 300 yen discount per ink stick. * All shipments use Mercari shipping, so they are covered by full compensation support. #Minista Inkstone (Inspiring Inkstone) ↑ Click here for a list of inkstones. Production Area Support Inkstone: I call inkstones purchased directly from the inkstone production area "Production Area Support Inkstones." The purpose is to support the production area and craftsmen through the sale of new inkstones. Inkstone Tuning: The process of improving the performance of ink grinding, ink color, ink flow, ink dispersion, and the feel of grinding ink to enable better calligraphy and painting. People often say that they feel like they have become better at calligraphy and painting. Calligraphy Calligraphy Tools Kana Kanji Sutra Copying Japanese Painting Ink Wash Painting Sumi-e Picture Letter Soryu Stone Brush Ink Inkstone Paper