They also represent four seasons and four desirable personality traits. The orchid represented summer and noble virtue. The bamboo symbolized winter and also strength, i.e. integrity. The plum blossom was spring, and the white blossoms signified character. And, finally, the chrysanthemum represented autumn as well as modesty, and loyalty.
Traditional ink comes in stick form.
It is made from vegetable carbon and glue, is molded into a form and fired in a kiln. To paint with this stick, you need to mix it with water by grinding it with water in a circular motion on a slate stone specifically made for this purpose. Besides giving you the painting medium, this process also is a wonderful meditative exercise. By grinding ink, you can clear your mind before you begin painting. Both Japanese and Chinese ink are also available in liquid form.