Li Tinggui
Time-Honored BrandLi Tinggui · Anhui · Founded
Li Tinggui, the master of Huizhou ink, was granted the imperial surname by the Southern Tang emperor. His ink-making craft has been passed down for a thousand years, embodying the essence of Chinese ink culture.
Brand Story
Li Tinggui, originally surnamed Xi, was born in the late Tang and Five Dynasties period in Yishui, Hebei. To escape the turmoil of war, he migrated south with his father Xi Chao to Shezhou (present-day Huangshan, Anhui). The Xi family excelled in ink-making, producing ink of such quality that it was praised as 'rich in texture and glossy as lacquer,' renowned throughout the Jiangnan region. Emperor Li Yu of the Southern Tang, a lover of calligraphy and painting, admired their ink so much that he bestowed upon them the imperial surname Li. Thus, Xi Tinggui became Li Tinggui, and his ink was named 'Li Tinggui Ink.' Building on his family's legacy, Li Tinggui innovated the 'dui jiao fa' (paired glue method), using pine soot and deer horn glue, refined through countless processes, to create ink that was 'light to hold, fragrant to smell, and clear to grind,' hailed as 'the finest under heaven.' His ink was as hard as metal and stone, capable of 'falling on paper like lacquer, preserving truth for ten thousand years.' The saying 'Gold is easy to obtain, but Li's ink is hard to find' became proverbial. Li Tinggui's ink was treasured by literati and became a tribute to the Southern Tang court, profoundly influencing the development of Huizhou ink. After the Song dynasty, Li Tinggui was revered as the patriarch of Huizhou ink-making, and his cultural significance transcends the object itself, becoming a vital carrier of Chinese civilization.
“Gold is easy to obtain, but Li's ink is hard to find.”
Signature Products
A pine soot ink stick reproduced according to ancient methods, with a firm and moist texture, suitable for both painting and calligraphy, yielding a deep black gloss. (500-5000 RMB)
Limited edition ink sticks crafted with traditional techniques and exquisite carving, combining practicality and collectible value. (10000-50000 RMB)
Made with modern techniques for daily use, retaining the traditional ink charm, ideal for calligraphy practice. (50-200 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Anhui（安徽）
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Cultural Note
Li Tinggui's ink-making technique, centered on the 'paired glue method,' emphasizes processes such as glue mixing, pounding, and drying, resulting in ink that is hard, glossy, and smooth for writing. His ink culture reflects the ancient Chinese literati's ultimate pursuit of writing tools, serving as the origin of Huizhou ink craftsmanship and profoundly influencing later generations of ink makers.
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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 Li Tinggui founded?
Li Tinggui was founded in null, originating in Anhui, Anhui, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Li Tinggui?
Its signature product is Li Tinggui Ink (Antique Reproduction). 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: