Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Monochromatic ink painting is an art form originating from East Asia, particularly China and Japan. It involves using black ink on paper or silk to create artworks that focus solely on shades and variations of black, white, and gray tones.
Related terms
Sumi-e: A Japanese term for monochromatic ink painting, emphasizing the use of brushstrokes and simplicity.
A school of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation, mindfulness, and direct experience to attain enlightenment. It has a strong influence on monochromatic ink painting.