The legacy of tin mining and its impact on the Malay, Chinese and Indian communities remains an integral part of Malaysia’s historical tapestry, reflecting both economic progress and complex social dynamics. It is with this intriguing backdrop that PenGallery has chosen Bijih Timah as the next ink in its Heritage series.
Bijih Timah, which means tin ore in Malay, is supposedly a grey ink, but appears markedly different depending on what paper surface you choose to use. On Tomoe River paper (middle and right abstract calligraphy examples) and in a Cult Pens swatch sample book (above), the colour is a definite blue grey and then when applied with water, the tiniest hint of brown can be detected too.
When used in a Rhodia Touch Pen and Inkwash book, on Bockingford watercolour paper, Seawhite cartridge paper and in a Rhodia dot matrix pad that brown hue becomes far more dominant over the grey.
And you may well be thinking that you’ve seen something similar before? Well possibly. Diamine Earl Grey has similar qualities although the brown is more pink/red, as does Cult Pens Matthew which is closest in hue and behaviour.
From a creative point of view, the chromatography here is fabulous as is that definite sharp clean reaction to bleach. So, if you’re looking for a sketching / painting ink as well as a writing ink, this really is worth a visit. If you would like to know more or get hold some, click here.
And HEY! If you’re interested to know more about how to use fountain pen inks in more creative ways – whether it’s simply to observe their chromatic behaviours, or, to recreate one of my swatch cards, or, to learn how to use them in watercolour painting, illustration and calligraphy, why not check out my online course?
FOUNTAIN PEN INK ART 