Putri Thalita: Shodo, Japanese Caligraphy

Japanese Caligraphy or Shodo is an artistic writing of Japanese characters. It has similar techniques and principles to Chinese calligraphy. The usual method of practicing Japanese calligraphy is by writing the characters in ink (sumi) on mulberry paper (washi) and incorporates the same basic styles of writing that are included in the Chinese counterpart. These writing styles include seal script (tensho), clerical script (reisho), regular script (kaisho), semi-cursive (gyōsho), and cursive (cāoshū). Japanese calligraphy is an example of how a utilitarian task, such as writing, can be transformed into an art.

A calligraphy set consists of:

Shitajiki: Black, soft mat. It provides a comfortable, soft surface.
Bunchin: Metal stick to weight down the paper during writing.
Hanshi: Special, thin calligraphy paper.
Fude: Brush. There is a larger brush for writing the main characters and a smaller one for writing the artist's name. The small brush, however, can be used for the characters, too.
Suzuri: Heavy black container for the ink.
Sumi: Solid black material that must be rubbed in water in the suzuri to produce the black ink which is then used for writing. Of course, "instant ink" in bottles is also available.