Nara-sumi (Ink Stick)

Traditional ink sticks from Nara, Japan's premier ink production center.

Nara-sumi (Nara ink sticks) are traditional solid ink cakes produced in Nara, which manufactures over 95% of Japan's sumi ink. The craft dates back to the 7th century when ink-making techniques arrived from China via Korean monks. Soot from burned vegetable oils (especially rapeseed) or pine wood is mixed with nikawa (animal hide glue) and fragrant ingredients like camphor and musk, then kneaded, pressed into carved wooden molds, and dried for months. The finest aged ink sticks are treasured as collectible art objects.