From 1993 to 2012, Kobaien released a special edition inkstick set called “Bokufu (記念目録, memorial catalog of inksticks)” to commemorate the long tradition of making inksticks that has continued for over 400 years.
With special permission, ICHI Inc. is now able to sell these Bokufu inkstick sets, which are not currently available in stores. These are more for gifting or as an investment than for practical use.
This is the year 2004 edition.
This special inkstick set comes with a certificate of authenticity for Kobaien products issued by Ichi inc. The following is a sample of the certificate.
The actual document will include the date, number and company seal.
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Contents Description
Gyokudo-Fuki
(玉堂富貴)
The meaning of the name of the inkstick:
"Beauty and prosperity, wealth and social status."
Width: 30.5 mm Length: 110.3 mm Thickness: 12.5 mm Weight: 52 grams
Kenka-Seisha
(兼葭清社)
The meaning of the name of the inkstick:
"A refreshing companion, like a riverside where reed canary grass flourishes"
Width: 58.2 mm Length: 58.2. mm Thickness: 9.4 mm Weight: 26 grams
Hotei
(布袋)
The meaning of the name of the inkstick:
"Hotei, the "Laughing Buddha" or "Smiling Monk""
Width: 26.3 mm Length: 107.5 mm Thickness: 8.9 mm Weight: 32 grams
Kouzouboku
(香象墨)
The meaning of the name of the inkstick:
"Elephant inkstick with special significance based on Buddhist tradition."
Width: 45.2 mm Length: 90.9 mm Thickness: 12 mm Weight: 41 grams
Box Size: Width: 300 mm Length: 210 mm Thickness: 40 mm Weight: 645 grams
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The designs of the ink sticks introduced below are taken from old documents related to the production of ink that have been passed down through the generations at Kobaien. Some of the designs are more recent.
**For a detailed description of the included ink, please contact us.
Ms. Junko Azukawa, a contemporary calligrapher and ink painter in Australia, explains how to use stickinks.
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