Chinese ink comes in solidified form as 'ink sticks' or 'ink cakes'. First water is sprinkled on the rough surface of an ink stone. Then one end of the ink stick is placed on the grinding surface of the stone and then gradually ground to produce the ink. More water is added during the grinding process to increase the amount of ink produced. An ink stick, together with an ink brush, ink stone and paper, are the four writing implements traditionally known as the 'Four Treasures of the Study'. Ink sticks are made mainly of soot and animal glue. This material is pressed into molds which will be decorated with characters that are usually highlighted in gold afterwards. These two are decorated in gold leaf and colors with a Phoenix and a Dragon which symbolize a Perfect Marriage. The backs are embellished in gold with Chinese characters. We acquired the box containing the two ink cakes in Hong Kong in 1992 and intended to use them which never happened. They date from that period. The box has a glass window. Box 14.5 x 8.2 x 2.3 cm. Diameter cakes 5.3 cm. Thickness 1.3 cm.