At the Liu Xinxiang Duan Inkstone Art Museum in Zhaoqing, the city known as the "Inkstone Capital of China", there is the largest and heaviest "Drum-shaped" Duan inkstone in the world, the "Drum Shape - Dragon Soaring in Prosperity" Inkstone.
It is carved with 56 auspicious dragons, symbolizing the unity of the 56 ethnic groups in China.
The original stone weighed 30 tons, and it took Liu Xinxiang, a Chinese inkstone expert and craftsman, along with his 14 apprentices, a decade to create this masterpiece.
Liu Xinxiang has dedicated over 40 years to the art of inkstone, he is a recipient of the State Council's Special Allowance.
His works are renowned for their distinctive style, ancient elegance, and intricate craftsmanship, and has earned over 50 gold and silver awards in national and provincial master art competitions.
In 2024, Liu Xinxiang was honored with the title of "Good Samaritan of Guangdong".
