scented India ink; fragrant sumi
Formal or literary term for high-quality ink with a pleasant fragrance. Often used in calligraphy or artistic contexts.
See also: 墨 (すみ)
your esteemed letter; your highly regarded writing
Honorific and formal term used to refer respectfully to someone's letter or writing. Not used in everyday conversation.
Calligraphers prefer to use scented India ink.
Thank you very much for your esteemed letter the other day.
Compound of 芳 (fragrant, esteemed) and 墨 (ink). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word combines the literal sense of fragrant ink with a figurative honorific use for fine writing.