Glossary
Wenwan walnut features referenced in the glossary
Image: CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Wenwan (文玩): Traditional handheld objects appreciated for mindful handling and aesthetics.
- Wenwan walnuts: A matched pair of walnut shells used for gentle handling and appreciation.
- Patina (包浆): A gradual sheen that develops through regular handling over time.
- Matched pair (配对): Two walnuts closely matched in size, shape, and rib pattern.
- Ribs/veins (筋/棱): Raised lines on the shell that influence look and grip.
- Symmetry: Visual balance between the two walnuts in a pair.
- Crown: The top feature of a walnut shell, used when judging shape.
- Navel: The bottom feature of a walnut shell, opposite the crown.
- Outline: The visual silhouette when viewing a walnut from the side.
- Relief: How strongly ribs protrude from the surface.
- Texture: The overall tactile feel from ribs, pits, and surface details.
- Taper: How the walnut narrows toward one or both ends.
- Height: The vertical measure when placed upright; important for matching.
- Width: The side-to-side measure; contributes to fullness in the hand.
- Weight: Overall mass of each walnut; pairs should feel similar.
- Finish: The surface look; beginners avoid oils to keep it even.
- Care: Basic handling, cleaning, and storage practices.
- Storage: Keeping walnuts in a breathable pouch away from moisture.
- Beginner set: An approachable pair with comfortable texture and balance.
- Advanced pair: A pair with stricter matching and rarer visual traits.
- Variety: A common shape/type such as Lion Head or Chicken Heart.
- Lion Head: A variety known for deep ribs and a rounded silhouette.
- Chicken Heart: A variety with heart-like outlines and smooth curves.
- Official's Hat: A variety with a flatter top and defined edges.
- Yuanbao: An ingot-like shape that sits comfortably in the palm.
- Pointed (Menjian): A more tapered form with prominent navels.
- Inspection: Checking pairs for matching size, shape, and rib layout.
- Routine: A short daily practice focused on gentle, consistent handling.
- Mindful handling: Paying attention to motion, pressure, and breath while playing.
- Beginner mistake: Over-squeezing, using oils too soon, or exposing to moisture.