Curtain Call: Purple Sandalwood, Rosewood

Author: Xia Feng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: This book is one of the "Treasures in Golden Houses" series, which briefly discusses the origins of zitan and huanglihi, the characteristics of different eras, the collection histories of different collectors, and price comparisons across different periods. It fully explains the collectible value that has been passed down to this day, making it an easy-to-understand guide for treasure enthusiasts. According to relevant experts, the following conclusions have been reached regarding the origins and naming of zitan:
1. Sandalwood Zitan, native to Mysore, southern India, with insoluble pigments. Scientific name: Sandalwood Zitan. Commonly referred to as zitan. Named after texture and color, including names such as Rhino Horn Zitan, Star Zitan, Blood Zitan, and Chicken Blood Zitan.
2., native to countries surrounding southern China and southwestern India. Scientific name: Indian Rosewood. Commercial name: huanglihi. Named after texture and color, including names such as Cow Hair Zitan and Huanglihi Flower Zitan. Sandalwood Zitan has high oil content, with a specific gravity generally above 1.1 and 1.3, and lighter than 1. The oil-rich variety almost lacks pores, appearing smooth and glossy like a polished black plastic board. Huanglihi Zitan with less oil has a specific gravity of 1.1 or less, with relatively sparse pores, and clear cow hair and huanglihi patterns. After a century of wind-drying, photochemical changes, and exposure to heat and cold, as well as expansion and contraction, the oil molecules and water molecules in the zitan and fibers slowly move, with some being ruthlessly oxidized, causing a decrease in specific gravity.