Definition & Meaning of "sumi"

What is "sumi"?

Sumi, often referred to as sumi ink, is a traditional black ink used in East Asian brush painting and calligraphy. Made from soot or blackened charcoal and animal glue, it has been used for centuries in Chinese and Japanese art. The ink is ground on an ink stone with a small amount of water to create a smooth, rich black ink that can range from pale gray to deep black depending on the amount of water mixed. Sumi is valued for its deep, vibrant color and smooth flow, making it ideal for creating expressive brushstrokes and delicate details in artwork.