The inkstones from the Ming Dynasty were also dominated by those made of stone. The most popular styles were Shi Qu Yan (Stone Canal Inkstones) and handheld inkstones. This is a Shi Qu Yan (Stone Canal Inkstone). This design of round shape with deep water-pool at the periphery was seen in inkstones of the Eastern Han, Tang, Song, and Liao Dynasties. Therefore, we can see that those inkstones were developed from one origin. This inkstone is made from purple Duan stone. The color is purplish red. The grinding surface has been used for a long period of time and is slightly concaved. The deep water-pool on the periphery is called Qu. This is for ink storage.