Calligraphy inks in Persia, Ottoman Empire, China, India, and the Arab world: a comparison

A variety of ingredients and techniques were employed in Persia, Ottoman Empire, China, India and the Arab world to make ink. These ingredients and techniques have so far not been sufficiently studied. This paper compares the inks used in producing manuscripts in these oriental cultures.
Method/Research Design: Findings were extracted and analyzed by reviewing the literature.
Findings: The ink used in the majority of the cultures was a combination of herbal and mineral pigments. The binder used was either gum or fish glue. Both caused pigment particles to be suspended in a liquid solution and adhere to the surface. Also, additional ingredients available in each region were added to the ink to enhance its quality.