This article surveys the history of inkmaking in China. It emphasizes the fact that Chinese ink differs from Western ink in that it is kept in a solid form and its main ingredients are carbon and glue. Its relationship to the art of Chinese calligraphy and painting is discussed. Solid ink is also an art form in itself because it incorporates painting, calligraphy, woodcut, and sculpture into a unique miniature work of art. The oldest ink fragments discovered at archaeological excavation sites date back to the 3rd century BC to 220 AD. Early formulas involving soot or lampblack and deer antler glue are described. High quality ink pieces with exquisite designs and fine calligraphy have been treasured by connoisseurs and museums. Thus its importance reaches beyond its function as a writing and printing tool; its permanence has enabled many cultural relics and literary works produced hundreds of years ago to survive the passage of time. -- AATA