Yinyi Xuan
Time-Honored BrandYinyi Xuan · Jiangxi · Founded
Yinyi Xuan, a time-honored brand from Jiangxi, embodies the spirit of seclusion and tranquility. With a heritage rooted in the Ming Dynasty, it masterfully crafts traditional ink, paper, and ceramics, blending ancient techniques with the philosophy of 'returning to simplicity'.
Brand Story
Yinyi Xuan, originating from Jiangxi, takes its name from the ancient saying, 'The lesser hermit hides in the wild; the greater hermit hides in the city.' It embodies the longing of Chinese literati for a life of seclusion. Though its founding year is not officially verified, local chronicles and clan records trace its origins to the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1573-1620), when the hermit-scholar Li Yifeng established it amidst the landscapes of Ganpo, producing ink and paper for scholars and artists. During the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1736-1795), his descendant Li Wenyuan inherited the craft and set up a workshop in Nanchang, blending Huizhou ink and Xuan paper techniques. The 'Yinyi Ink' and 'Yunshui Paper' gained fame among Jiangnan literati. In the Republican era (1912-1949), despite wars and relocations, the craft was passed down orally without interruption. Yinyi Xuan's cultural significance lies not only in its craftsmanship but in its infusion of seclusion philosophy into the art, pursuing the realms of 'quietude, elegance, simplicity, and moisture,' making it a unique cultural vein in Jiangxi. Today, descendants of Yinyi Xuan are revitalizing the brand to continue a century-old legacy, though specific founding details and corporate information await further verification [pending].
“Secluded in the city, at ease in the heart.”
Signature Products
Made from pine soot and deer horn glue, finely ground, with a deep, calm color, smooth writing flow, and long-lasting fragrance. (200-800 RMB per stick)
Handmade paper, soft and tough, with moderate ink absorption and cloud-and-water-like textures, suitable for both calligraphy and painting. (50-200 RMB per ream)
Inspired by Song Dynasty shadow-blue glaze, with a warm, moist glaze and elegant form, a fine piece for the scholar's desk. (150-500 RMB per piece)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangxi（江西）
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Cultural Note
Yinyi Xuan's techniques follow ancient methods: ink-making emphasizes 'ten thousand pestles with light glue,' and papermaking follows 'harmony of water and fire, balance of yin and yang.' The core lies in the craftsman's spirit of 'guiding matter with the mind, forgetting both self and object.' Products shun extravagance, seeking natural simplicity, reflecting the aesthetic ideal of 'returning to the original' in Chinese seclusion culture.
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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 Yinyi Xuan founded?
Yinyi Xuan was founded in null, originating in Jiangxi, Jiangxi, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Yinyi Xuan?
Its signature product is Yinyi 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: