Some painting techniques and materials used in Japan and the Far East

Abstract

Summary The information for this article is based on the author's primary research on copy painting techniques (nihonga mosha) at Kyoto City University of Art in 1996. This paper describes the development of painting in the Far East from calligraphic brush marks to eloquent, brightly coloured pictorial art and the tools required to create it. An account of the brushes, supports and sizing used is followed by a description of the ink and colourants involved. Artist's paint making and the techniques for its application are explained, with a short outline of painting styles and artistic expression.