Xuan Paper For Chinese Painting And Calligraphy

Xuan Paper For Chinese Painting And Calligraphy

Xuan paper, also known as rice paper or shuen paper, is a type of paper that is traditionally used for Chinese painting and calligraphy. It is made from the bark of the Xuan tree, which is native to Anhui province in China. Xuan paper is highly valued for its absorbency, strength, and ability to hold ink without bleeding. The process of making Xuan paper is a time-consuming and intricate one. The bark of the Xuan tree is harvested, boiled, and then pounded into a pulp. The pulp is then spread out on a bamboo screen and left to dry in the sun. The resulting paper is thin and translucent, with a slightly rough texture. Xuan paper comes in different grades, ranging from the highest quality, known as gongbi or fine hair, to the lower quality maobian or hairy side. The quality of the paper is determined by factors such as the thickness, texture, and absorbency. Fine hair Xuan paper is the most expensive and is used for detailed paintings and calligraphy, while the lower quality papers are used for practice or rough sketches. Xuan paper has been used for over a thousand years in China and is an integral part of Chinese culture. It is not only used for painting and calligraphy but also for writing letters, making lanterns, and wrapping gifts. The paper is also used in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is believed to have healing properties. In recent years, Xuan paper has gained popularity outside of China, with artists and calligraphers around the world using it for its unique qualities. Despite its popularity, the traditional process of making Xuan paper is still practiced by a small number of artisans in Anhui province.

Xuan paper, rice paper, shuen paper, Chinese painting, calligraphy

— Joseph Williams