This article explores the importance of paper in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting and investigates the performance differences between a new paper and an old paper. The characteristics of paper, such as texture, absorbency, color, and durability, significantly impact the artwork’s quality and expression. The development of new papers has been driven by the desire to improve characteristics and meet the evolving needs of artists. This research compares a new paper, made using alternative materials and technology, with an old paper, combining a simulation sample and authentic calligraphy and painting scraps. The evaluation considers parameters such as ink absorption, texture, color vibrancy, bleed-through, smudging, and durability. The new paper demonstrated superior ink absorption, a smooth texture suitable for detailed work, enhanced color vibrancy, minimal bleed-through and smudging, and improved durability. The old paper, while offering a unique rough texture, had slower ink drying times, slightly lower color vibrancy, and less durability. Artists seeking precision and vibrant colors may prefer the new paper, while those desiring a textured and traditional aesthetic may favor the old paper. The findings contribute to understanding the performance characteristics of different papers, aiding artists, collectors, and researchers in their selection and appreciation of paper in calligraphy and painting. Several challenges, such as the omission of specific paper types or brands, a limited sample size, and the oversight of long-term paper durability, warrant further exploration. In the context of modern tools, the article underscores the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in supporting artists, collectors, and researchers in the selection and appreciation of paper in calligraphy and painting. Integration of AI for tasks such as data analysis, pattern recognition, and recommendation systems could offer valuable insights, fostering objectivity and efficiency in the study and aiding in the exploration of a wider range of paper characteristics.

1. Easterby-Smith M, Malina D, Yuan L. How culture-sensitive is HRM? A comparative analysis of practice in Chinese and UK companies. The International Journal of Human Resource Management 1995; 6(1): 31–59. doi: 10.1080/09585199500000002

2. Zhang J, Cui J, Zhong H, et al. PA-CRT: Chinese remainder theorem based conditional privacy-preserving authentication scheme in vehicular Ad-Hoc networks. IEEE Transactions on Dependable and Secure Computing 2021; 18(2): 722–735. doi: 10.1109/tdsc.2019.2904274

3. Jain P, Gupta C. A sustainable journey of handmade paper from past to present: A review. Problemy Ekorozwoju 2021; 16(2): 233–244. doi: 10.35784/pe.2021.2.25

4. Guo F, Tong L, Xu L, et al. Spatio‐temporal pattern evolution and spatial spillover effect of green development efficiency: Evidence from Shandong Province, China. Growth and Change 2019; 51(1): 382–401. doi: 10.1111/grow.12355

5. Akpoti K, Kabo-bah AT, Zwart SJ. Agricultural land suitability analysis: State-of-the-art and outlooks for integration of climate change analysis. Agricultural Systems 2019; 173: 172–208. doi: 10.1016/j.agsy.2019.02.013

6. Huang Y, Luk P. Measuring economic policy uncertainty in China. China Economic Review 2020; 59: 101367. doi: 10.1016/j.chieco.2019.101367

7. Zha J. China’s popular culture in the 1990s. In: China Briefing. Routledge; 2019. pp. 109–150. doi: 10.4324/9781315284736-5

8. Oksanen A, Cvetkovic A, Akin N, et al. Artificial intelligence in fine arts: A systematic review of empirical research. Computers in Human Behavior: Artificial Humans 2023; 1(2): 100004. doi: 10.1016/j.chbah.2023.100004

9. Zhang J, Cui H, Yang AL, et al. An intelligent digital twin system for paper manufacturing in the paper industry. Expert Systems with Applications 2023; 230: 120614. doi: 10.1016/j.eswa.2023.120614

10. Khan S, Zahoor M, Rahman MU, et al. Cocrystals, basic concepts, properties and formation strategies. Zeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie 2023; 237(3): 273–332. doi: 10.1515/zpch-2022-0175

11. Rahman FU, Khan S, Rahman MU, et al. Effect of ionic strength on DNA–dye interactions of Victoria blue B and methylene green using UV–visible spectroscopy. Zeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie 2023. doi: 10.1515/zpch-2023-0365

12. Khan S, Rahman FU, Zahoor M, et al. The DNA threat probing of some chromophores using UV/VIS spectroscopy. World Journal of Biology and Biotechnology 2023; 8(2): 19. doi: 10.33865/wjb.008.02.0962

13. Khan S. Phase engineering and impact of external stimuli for phase tuning in 2D materials. Advanced Energy Conversion Materials 2023; 5(1): 40–55. doi: 10.37256/aecm.5120243886

14. Mukoyoshi S, Azuma J, Koshijima T. Lignin-carbohydrate complexes from compression wood of Pinus densiflora Sieb et. Zucc. Holzforschung 1981; 35(5): 233–240. doi: 10.1515/hfsg.1981.35.5.233

15. Azuma N. A flow law for anisotropic ice and its application to ice sheets. Earth and Planetary Science Letters 1994; 128(3–4): 601–614. doi: 10.1016/0012-821x(94)90173-2

16. Eraso F, Hartley RD. Monomeric and dimeric phenolic constituents of plant cell walls—Possible factors influencing wall biodegradability. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 1990; 51(2): 163–170. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.2740510203

17. Glasser R. My Music Is My Flag. University of California Press; 1996. doi: 10.1525/9780520919112

18. Ebringerová A, Heinze T. Xylan and xylan derivatives—Biopolymers with valuable properties, 1. Naturally occurring xylans structures, isolation procedures and properties. Macromolecular Rapid Communications 2000; 21(9): 542–556. doi: 10.1002/1521-3927(20000601)21: 9<542: : aid-marc542>3.0.co, 2-7

19. Wyman C, Decker S, Himmel M, et al. Hydrolysis of cellulose and hemicellulose. Polysaccharides 2004. doi: 10.1201/9781420030822.ch43

20. Khan S, Iqbal A. Organic polymers revolution: Applications and formation strategies, and future perspectives. Journal of Polymer Science and Engineering, 2023, 6(1): 3125.

21. Klemm D, Philipp B, Heinze T, et al. Comprehensive Cellulose Chemistry Volume 1: Fundamentals and Analytical Methods. Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH; 1998. doi: 10.1002/3527601937

22. Khan S, Rahman M, Marwani HM, et al. Bicomponent polymorphs of salicylic acid, their antibacterial potentials, intermolecular interactions, DFT and docking studies. Zeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie 2023. doi: 10.1515/zpch-2023-0378

23. Fengel D, Wegener G. Wood: Chemistry, Ultrastructure, Reactions. Walter de Gruyter; 2011.

24. Wyman C, Decker S, Himmel M, et al. Hydrolysis of cellulose and hemicellulose. Polysaccharides 2005; 1: 1023–1062.

25. Area MC, Cheradame H. Paper aging and degradation: Recent findings and research methods. BioResources 2011; 6(4): 5307–5337. doi: 10.15376/biores.6.4.5307-5337

26. Klemm D, Heublein B, Fink H, et al. Cellulose: Fascinating biopolymer and sustainable raw material. Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2005; 44(22): 3358–3393. doi: 10.1002/anie.200460587

27. Ullah A, Liu J, Khan AU, et al. Diversification and design of novel aniline‐pyrimidines via sonogashira/suzuki cross coupling reactions catalyzed by Novel CLPN‐Pd. ChemistrySelect 2021; 6(47): 13551–13558. doi: 10.1002/slct.202102934

28. Havermans JBGA. The impact of european research related to paper ageing on preventive conservation strategies. Restaurator 2002; 23(2). doi: 10.1515/rest.2002.68

29. Havermans J. The effects of air pollutants on the accelerated ageing of cellulose containing materials. Preliminary results of the STEP project (CT90–0100). In: Proceedings of the Second International ARSAG Study Workshop; 16–20 May 1994; Paris, France.

30. Zervos S. Natural and accelerated ageing of cellulose and paper: A literature review. In: Cellulose: Structure and Properties, Derivatives and Industrial Uses. Nova Science Publishers, Inc.; 2010. pp. 155–203.

31. Clarkson WW, Xiao X. Bench-scale anaerobic bioconversion of newsprint and office paper. Water Science and Technology 2000; 41(3): 93–100. doi: 10.2166/wst.2000.0060

32. Gurnagul N, Howard RC, Zou X, et al. The mechanical permanence of paper: A literature review. Journal of Pulp and Paper Science 1993; 19(4): J160–J160.

33. Zervos S, Moropoulou A. Methodology and criteria for the evaluation of paper conservation interventions: A literature review. Restaurator 2006; 27(4). doi: 10.1515/rest.2006.219

34. Elbakoush FE, Khan QU, Ullah M, et al. Characterization and thermal degradation study of carbonization the polyimide (PMDA/ODA)/Fe composite films. Transactions on Electrical and Electronic Materials 2021; 22(6): 843–850. doi: 10.1007/s42341-021-00309-0

35. Knutson K, Pu Y, Elder T, et al. Effect of photolysis on 17th/18th century paper. Holzforschung 2007; 61(2): 131–137. doi: 10.1515/hf.2007.024

36. Kato KL, Cameron RE. A review of the relationship between thermally-accelerated ageing of paper and hornification. Cellulose 1999; 6(1): 23–40. doi: 10.1023/a: 1009292120151

37. Smith RD. Paper stability and collection risk: A perspective and choices. Restaurator 2004; 25(3). doi: 10.1515/rest.2004.199

38. Lee SB, Bogaard J, Feller RL. Damaging effects of visible and near-ultraviolet radiation on paper. In: Zeronian SH, Needles HL (editors). Historic Textile and Paper Materials II. American Chemical Society; 1989. pp. 54–62. doi: 10.1021/bk-1989-0410.ch004

39. Andray AL, Song Y, Parthasarathy VR, et al. Photoyellowing of mechanical pulp part 1: Examining the wavelength sensitivity of light induced yellowing using monochromatic radiation. Tappi Journal 1991; 74(8).

40. Forsskahl I. Towards an understanding of the photoyellowing of pulps and papers. Trends Photochem. Photobiol 1994; 3: 503–520.

41. Ragauskas AJ, Allison L, Cook C, et al. Brightness reversion of mechanical pulps. X. photoreversion fiber topochemistry. Journal of Wood Chemistry and Technology 1998; 18(3): 289–297. doi: 10.1080/02773819809349582

42. Erhardt D, Tumosa CS, Mecklenburg MF. Chemical and physical changes in naturally and accelerated aged cellulose. In: Historic Textiles, Papers, and Polymers in Museums. American Chemical Society; 2000. pp. 23–37. doi: 10.1021/bk-2001-0779.ch003

43. Henniges U, Prohaska T, Banik G, et al. A fluorescence labeling approach to assess the deterioration state of aged papers. Cellulose 2006; 13(4): 421–428. doi: 10.1007/s10570-005-9030-3

44. Wiedeman HG, Bayer G. Papyrus the paper of ancient Egypt. Analytical Chemistry 1983; 55(12): 1220A–1230A. doi: 10.1021/ac00262a774

45. Bloom JM. Papermaking: The historical diffusion of an ancient technique. In: Knowledge and Space. Springer; 2017. pp. 51–66. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-44654-7_3

46. Khan S, Ajmal S, Hussain T, et al. Clay-based materials for enhanced water treatment: Adsorption mechanisms, challenges, and future directions. Journal of Umm Al-Qura University for Applied Sciences 2023. doi: 10.1007/s43994-023-00083-0

47. Hunter D. Papermaking by Hand in India. Pynson Printers; 1939.

48. Jugaku B. Paper-Making by Hand in Japan. Meiji-Shobo; 1959.

49. Hubbe M, Bowden C. Handmade paper: A review of its history, craft, and science. BioResources 2009; 4(4): 1736–1792. doi: 10.15376/biores.4.4.1736-1792

50. Dwivedi AK, Dangayach GS. Handmade paper industry—Experience of Indian manufacturing units. International Journal of Business Innovation and Research 2013; 7(3): 318. doi: 10.1504/ijbir.2013.053634

51. Dwivedi AK, Dwivedi DPK. Rural entrepreneurial development: A study on Indian handmade paper industry. SSRN Electronic Journal 2014. doi: 10.2139/ssrn.2502735

52. Gul Z, Salman M, Khan S, et al. Single organic ligands act as a bifunctional sensor for subsequent detection of metal and cyanide ions, a statistical approach toward coordination and sensitivity. Critical Reviews in Analytical Chemistry 2023. doi: 10.1080/10408347.2023.2186165

53. Cutbush J, Morris H. Early American Papermaking: Two Treatises on Manufacturing Techniques Reprinted from James Cutbush’s American Artist’s Manual (1814) with an Introduction by John Bidwell. Oak Knoll Books; 1990.

54. McFarlane IG, Eddleston ALWF. Chronic active hepatitis. In: Targan SR, Shanahan F (editors). Immunology and Immunopathology of the Liver and Gastrointestinal Tract. Igaku-Shoin; 1989. pp. 281–304.

55. Schlosser LB. Handmade paper today: A worldwide survey of mills, papers, techniques and uses. Silvie Turner , Birgit Skiöld. The Papers of the Bibliographical Society of America 1984; 78(3): 371–373. doi: 10.1086/pbsa.78.3.24302841

56. Kumar A, Sharma AK, Jain RK, Sigh PB. The use of banana (Musa sapientum) and ankara (Calotropis procera) in the handmade paper industries. Lignocellulose 2013; 2(1): 269–280.‎

57. Kulshreshtha S, Mathur N, Bhatnagar P, et al. Cultivation of Pleurotus citrinopileatus on handmade paper and cardboard industrial wastes. Industrial Crops and Products 2013; 41: 340–346. doi: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2012.04.053

58. Nazir S, Zhang JM, Junaid M, et al. Metal-based nanoparticles: Basics, types, fabrications and their electronic applications. Zeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie 2024. doi: 10.1515/zpch-2023-0375

59. Khan S, Ullah I, Khan H, et al. Green synthesis of AgNPs from leaves extract of Saliva Sclarea, their characterization, antibacterial activity, and catalytic reduction ability. Zeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie 2024. doi: 10.1515/zpch-2023-0363

60. Wang K, Yin H, Chen Y. The effect of environmental regulation on air quality: A study of new ambient air quality standards in China. Journal of Cleaner Production 2019; 215: 268–279. doi: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.01.061