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Regular Script, or Kaishu, stands as one of the most important and widely practiced styles of Chinese calligraphy. Often considered the standard script, it's characterized by its clear, structured, and balanced forms. Unlike other cursive or semi-cursive styles, Kaishu emphasizes precision, meticulousness, and adherence to established rules, making it both a foundational skill and a highly refined art form. It’s the first style many students learn, serving as a basis for other forms of calligraphy. The development of Kaishu can be traced back to the late Han Dynasty, and it reached its peak during the Tang Dynasty. It evolved from the more free-flowing Lishu (Clerical Script), becoming more regularized and standardized. The shift to Kaishu reflected a growing need for a legible and efficient script for official documentation and widespread communication. Over time, it became the predominant style used in printing and education. The key features of Kaishu include distinct, individual strokes, clear separation between characters, and an overall sense of equilibrium. Each stroke, from the horizontal to the vertical, from the upward to the downward, has its specific form and position, contributing to the overall balance. The structure of characters follows precise rules regarding proportion and spacing, ensuring readability and aesthetic harmony. The practice of Kaishu requires patience, concentration, and a deep understanding of calligraphic principles. Beginners often start by tracing model works, gradually progressing to practicing characters independently. Mastering the fundamental strokes is essential for moving to more complex character compositions. This practice is a lifelong pursuit, as the quest for perfection is continuous. The influence of Kaishu extends far beyond the practice of calligraphy. Its aesthetic principles and structured forms have impacted various other fields, from architecture to graphic design. Its legacy is a vital part of Chinese culture, offering a tangible connection to history, language, and artistic tradition. |
Tag : Regular script, kaishu, Chinese calligraphy, standard script, calligraphy styles
This article compares early, mid, and late Tang Kaishu styles, highlighting how early Kaishu emphasized structure, mid-Tang shifted toward expressiveness, and late-Tang focused on elegance, demonstrating the evolution and diversity of the script during this period.
This article explores the connection between Tang Kaishu and poetry, highlighting how calligraphers visually interpreted poetic texts, used style to match tone, and created a synthesis of visual and literary expression, demonstrating the multi-faceted nature of Tang Dynasty art.
This article explores the spiritual dimension of Tang Kaishu, emphasizing how the meditative process of calligraphy promotes mindfulness, focus, and a deeper connection with self, offering insights into its role as a form of spiritual practice.
This article examines the use of rubbings (taben) to study Tang Kaishu, detailing how they provide a tangible connection to the script, capture intricate details of stele inscriptions, and facilitated the dissemination of calligraphic styles during the Tang Dynasty.
This article highlights the enduring legacy of pre-Tang Kaishu for modern calligraphers, discussing the importance of understanding its origins, embracing experimentation, focusing on technical mastery, and how its lessons continue to inspire and inform contemporary practice.