Ink Rubbing

The art of rubbing coincided with the invention of paper. For nearly two thousand years, rubbing in China performed some of the functions of modern photographs. Duplicated from calligraphic inscriptions and low-relief designs carved in stone and clay, they were collected for study, hung in temples, and used as interior decoration.

Equipment

• Rice paper
• Ink
• Silk pad
• Spray bottle
• Bristle brush

1. Dampen both rice paper and surface of a carving by a spray bottle.
   
   
   
   
2. Carefully stretch the paper tightly over the surface of the carving.
   
   
3. With a wide, stubby bristle brush, carefully tamp the paper into all the depressions and crevices of the carving. Exercise care not to tear the paper. When it moulds itself over the carving, let it dry.
   
   
   
   
4. Traditional silk pad was stuffed with cotton and wrapped with silk.
   
   
   
   Saturate the silk pad with ink, then wipe clean of all excess ink until the pad is barely moist to the touch.
   
   
5. Dab the pad gently over the rice paper until, after repeated inking, the design clearly defined. Avoid excessive dabbing or application of too much ink, for it may result in smudging image.