<p>These solid colored ink sticks are traditionally used for calligraphy and chinese brush painting. To create ink from the stick, it needs to be continuously ground against an ink stone to grind up the pigment and then a small quantity of water is added in order to make the ink. This ink can then be picked up with a brush and used directly onto a surface.&nbsp;</p> <p>This set of 5 colored ink sticks come in a presentation box with a glass lid. Each colored ink stick has a gold dragon painted on one side. The colors included in this set are Red, Yellow, Green, Blue and White. These five colors have significance within Chinese culture -&nbsp;Red, corresponding with fire, symbolizes good fortune and joy.&nbsp;Yellow, corresponding with earth,&nbsp;signifies neutrality and good luck. Green/Blue&nbsp;is generally associated with health, prosperity, and harmony. White&nbsp;corresponding with metal, represents gold and symbolises brightness, purity, and fulfilment.&nbsp;</p> <p>The colors can be used on their own or mixed together to create new shades and tones.&nbsp;</p> <p>The box measures 13.7cm (W) x 10cm (H) x 1.8cm (D)</p> <p>Each colored ink stick measures 1.5cm (W) x 7.5cm (H) x 0.8cm (D)</p> <p>Also available is a larger, <a href="/studio-essentials-chinese-painting-black-ink-stick" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>single black chinese ink stick</strong></span></a></p>