Collection: Blue Sumi Ink & Pine-Soot Ink Sticks

SEIBOKU・SHOEMBOKU

The Classic “Pine Soot Ink” and the Increasingly Popular “Blue Sumi Ink”

In recent years, many artists have begun choosing sumi ink with a subtle blue cast or a distinctly cool-blue tone instead of pure black.
Blue sumi ink (Seiboku) is now widely used not only in calligraphy, but also in sumi-e (ink painting), haiga (haiku paintings), and illustrated letters. Its soft, gentle hue creates a calm and elegant atmosphere throughout the artwork.

When diluted, blue ink produces a uniquely transparent and airy tone, often described as feminine and graceful. Trying a blue ink instead of standard black can offer a refreshing change and open new expressive possibilities.

Pine soot ink (Shoenboku), the original form of traditional sumi, is characterized by its solid matte black—a deep jet black without gloss. It is said to gradually develop a subtle bluish tone as it ages, adding depth and character over time.

Although pine soot ink holds an important place in the history of sumi, the decline in high-quality pine trees has made true pine soot ink increasingly rare and highly valued today.