U-Kin (Golden Bird)

This is a smaller sized sumi ink and is recommended for those who are using solid sumi ink for the first time. This high-quality ink is filled with the traditional skills of Nara's ink craftsmen.
It would be a very nice gift as a local specialty filled with Nara's history.

Width：1.9cm
Thickness：0.8cm
Height：7.8cm
Weight：15g

Soot
Glue
Aroma

KINKOEN

"Bokushu (墨守)" = "Protect ink"

In order to preserve the tradition, it is more important to pass it on than to make it. We are making efforts to pass on Nara ink ink to the younger generation and people around the world by giving classes on sumi ink at elementary schools and holding hands-on sumi ink making classes in order to keep the more than 1400 years old tradition alive. We will continue to challenge the new possibilities of sumi ink.

ARTISAN STORY

Atsushi Nagano / Kinkoen
He is the seventh generation of Kinkoen, a company that has been making Nara ink ink in Nara Prefecture for over 100 years. He grew up watching his father and grandfather got blacken due to the ink all day long while making it, and he decided to take over the family business. He created new charms of sumi ink, such as aromatic sumi ink, which has an enjoyable aroma.

ACHIEVEMENTS

・Received award for Good Design

NARA SUMI / NARA INK

About 1,300 years ago / 700s / Nara Period (710–794)

Japanese ink production expanded in the Nara period as Buddhism and sutra copying created enormous demand. Temples needed reliable writing materials, encouraging the manufacture of solid ink from soot and animal glue. Even after the capital moved, Nara remained an important center serving religious institutions and calligraphers.

In Japan, Nara ink is valued for the many colors hidden inside “black.” The amount of water, grinding time and type of soot can produce bluish, brownish or glossy tones, and calligraphers still choose different ink sticks according to the work.

Unlike most writing materials, ink can improve with age. After careful drying, sticks may be stored for years or decades as the glue gradually changes, affecting flow and color. Fine old ink—koboku—can acquire a prestige almost like aged wine.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.