The King of Paper—Xuan Paper

◎安徽省淮北市第十二中学 刘念 指导教师：王苗苗

宣纸，又称精细宣纸、芦苇纸或竹纸，是文房四宝之一。宣纸起源于唐代，产于安徽宣城泾县，至今已有1500 多年的历史。宣纸制作工艺复杂精细，包括108 道工序，是安徽省的国家级非物质文化遗产之一。

Xuan paper, also known as fine Xuan paper, reed( 芦 苇) paper, or bamboo paper, is one of the four treasures of the study.It originated in the Tang Dynasty and was produced in Jing County, Xuancheng, Anhui Province.It has a history of over 1500 years.

According to records about Xuan paper, a long time ago, a papermaker named Kong Dan was considered a disciple( 弟 子) of Cai Lun, who had always wanted to create a high-quality paper.So Kong Dan decided to carry his packing and explore methods.One day, he arrived at Xuanzhou in Anhui Province.On the way, he found some branches falling into the mountain valley, soaking(浸泡) in a continuous stream of water.After a few days, they rotted( 腐烂) and turned white.He was very puzzled about this and decided to stay and explore the truth.Finally,he found out the root cause and made determined efforts to make quite a good Xuan paper.

Nowadays, the production process of Xuan paper is complex and fine, including 108 steps.Such superb Xuan paper -making techniques have been listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.Later, the unique Xuan paper is introduced to other regions and receives praise both domestically and internationally.

Xuan paper has been known since ancient times as the “king of paper,millennium longevity paper”(纸中之王、千年寿纸).Because of this special Xuan paper, we are fortunate to see the ancient ink treasures.

Xuan paper is mainly used for writing and painting.And it has been revered and loved by men of letters(文人墨客).In addition, many foreign enthusiasts of calligraphy( 书 法) and Chinese paintings also use Xuan paper to create their works.

The influential Anhui Xuan paper has brought innovation and development to traditional calligraphy and painting art, allowing ancient books to be passed down and reproduced, and precious document materials to be restored, preserved, and circulated(流传).