On the brush

Turning towards the pencil itself: it was brought to the Netherlands from China. Generally speaking, the brushes in China are deemed as being of better quality than those abroad, and thus the owner decided to bring it with him.

There are many types of brushes. They can be made of different materials and may be used by people with different preferences. A brush can be made of the most beautiful and expensive materials, but can also be made of wood or other more mundane materials. The same goes for the hair. Most brushes use the hair of goats, pigs, or buffalos. Length, size, and texture of the hair can differ greatly.

What makes a good brush then? That depends on what the user prefers. Not many can afford one as precious as the one belonging to the Emperor.