Artisans make Huzhou writing brushes in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province (Photo/VCG)

Shen Haixiong, president of China Media Group, gifted Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, a Huzhou writing brush on Feb 15. The brush pen was presented to Bach on the sidelines of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games.

The Huzhou writing brush is a traditional Chinese brush pen that is believed to have a history of over 2,000 years. Many renowned Chinese artists have used the brush to create valuable calligraphy works and paintings.

Crafting a Huzhou writing brush consists of over 120 steps. In 2016, the craft was designated a national intangible cultural heritage item. The Huzhou writing brush, Hui ink, Xuan paper, and Duan ink slab are considered the four treasures in Chinese stationery.

Visitors to Shanlian town in Huzhou's Nanxun district can observe the crafting process.

Ma Zhiliang, chairman of the Shanlian Huzhou Writing Brush Industry Association, said that calligraphy enthusiasts can purchase the pens at offline stores or via online flagship shops.    

Editor: Huang Yan