Cao Sugong
Time-Honored BrandCao Sugong · Shanghai · Founded 1667
Cao Sugong, a master ink maker of the Qing Dynasty, has passed down his craft for over 300 years. Renowned for premium inks like 'Ziyu Guang' (Purple Jade Light), this time-honored brand embodies the essence of Chinese literati culture.
Brand Story
Cao Sugong (1615-1689), courtesy name Shengchen, was a celebrated ink maker from Shexian, Anhui. Initially a Confucian scholar, he turned to commerce and founded his ink workshop in Xiuning County, Huizhou, in 1667, the sixth year of Emperor Kangxi's reign. His motto was 'meet friends through writing, bond through ink.' His inks, crafted with meticulous material selection and exquisite technique, were prized by scholars. The most famous, 'Ziyu Guang' (Purple Jade Light), boasted a lustrous purple hue. When Emperor Kangxi toured the south, Cao presented his ink and received the imperial name 'Ziyu Guang,' catapulting his reputation. The workshop passed through generations, surviving wars and upheavals, always adhering to ancient methods. During the Tongzhi era, it relocated to Shanghai, where it continues to thrive. Cao Sugong inks are not just tools for calligraphy and painting but carriers of the Chinese literati's spiritual pursuit, becoming an iconic symbol of Chinese culture.
“Yi Su Zhai”
Signature Products
Cao Sugong's masterpiece, with a purple-jade hue and warm luster, suitable for both calligraphy and painting. (Hundreds to thousands of RMB)
Named 'Eternal Light,' symbolizing the ink's enduring legacy, a treasured collectible for scholars. (Hundreds to over a thousand RMB)
Ink infused with gold powder, producing a shimmering, magnificent effect when writing. (Hundreds to over a thousand RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
Cao Sugong's workshop preserves ancient ink-making techniques, including soot refining, glue mixing, pounding, and molding, emphasizing the meticulous craft of 'ten thousand pestle strokes with light glue.' The inks are not only practical but also artworks integrating calligraphy, painting, and carving, reflecting the aesthetic taste and artisan spirit of Chinese literati.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Cao Sugong founded?
Cao Sugong was founded in 1667, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Crafts field.
What is the signature product of Cao Sugong?
Its signature product is Ziyu Guang Ink. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: