Ink brushes are used in Chinese calligraphy and painting. Currently, the finest brushes are made in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province.

Brushes differ greatly in terms of size, texture, material and cost.

The size is generally classified as either big, medium or small; most calligraphy is written with a medium-sized brush. The texture is soft, hard or mixed. Normally the brush is made from hair of sheep, pigs, mise, buffalos, wolves and rabbits, while exotic ones can be made from the hair of tigers, deer and even human babies. The stalk material is usually normal bamboo, exotic brushes instead may use materials like gold, silver, jade, ivory or wood. Prices vary greatly depending on the quality of the brush, from one to over US$ 1000.

Together with the ink stone, ink (stick) and paper, the four writing implements form the Four Treasures of the Study in China.