【Learn a word】毛笔 (máo bǐ) Writing Brush

Among the various calligraphy tools used in Chinese calligraphy, the writing brush 毛笔 (máo bǐ) is special to China. It represents one of the "four treasures of the study," the others being paper, ink and ink stone. A brush comprises of two parts: the head and shaft. The head is made of goat, wolf, rat or rabbit hair, which is softer than bamboo, a pencil, quill or ballpoint pen. The shaft is made of bamboo, wood, lacquer and porcelain, as well as some precious materials, including mother-of-pearl inlays, ivory and jade. Without the writing brush, Chinese painting and calligraphy could not have achieved such distinct features, and thus would not have enjoyed such great success around the world. Have you seen the writing brush? Have a try with it!