Duofu Inkstone Museum in Laiwu District, Jinan

Duofu inkstones are crafted from the local swallow stone found in Laiwu, with a history of production that dates back centuries. By the mid-Qing Dynasty, the craftsmanship reached its peak. The process includes over a dozen steps, such as stone collection, design, carving, and polishing, all done by hand.

The inkstones follow a traditional style of simple elegance, making full use of the natural qualities of the stone while blending them with the symbolic meanings of traditional Chinese culture. Each Duofu inkstone is a unique piece, reflecting both the material's character and cultural heritage.

The Duofu Inkstone Museum is located in Xiwangzhuang Village, Niuquan Town, and houses over 1,200 items, including Duofu inkstones, famous Lu inkstones, and inkstones from other provinces, as well as related cultural artifacts. The museum showcases the development of Duofu inkstone culture and the broader Chinese inkstone tradition. Using the preserved original quarry site, the museum has created a geological heritage park, a Duofu inkstone history and culture exhibition hall, and an inkstone-making workshop.

Visitors can tour the Duofu Inkstone Museum to learn about the history and cultural roots of the inkstone. They can also visit the fossil exhibition hall of trilobites from the Cambrian period, where they can view the fossils in their original quarry setting. Additionally, visitors can experience the traditional techniques of Duofu inkstone production, from stone collection and design to carving, polishing, and box fitting.