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While the Tang Dynasty is often considered the golden age of Kaishu, the roots of this script style extend deep into the earlier dynasties of China. Before the standardization and refinement of Kaishu we see in the Tang, several important transitional scripts and calligraphic styles paved the way for its emergence. These early forms, while not yet the fully-developed Kaishu, displayed characteristics and elements that would later define the script, showing a fascinating evolution in Chinese writing. Understanding these early seeds of Kaishu reveals the historical journey of this iconic script. The Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) saw the evolution of the Li Shu (Clerical Script) from earlier scripts. This marked a significant shift in the structure of characters, simplifying the strokes and making them more linear. While not yet Kaishu, the standardized and organized forms of Li Shu provided the groundwork for subsequent developments. The focus on horizontal strokes and vertical strokes, often seen in the Li Shu, was a foundational element that influenced the later regularization of Kaishu. This transitional phase played a pivotal role in the progression of Chinese calligraphy. The Wei Dynasty (220-265 AD) and the Jin Dynasty (266-420 AD) witnessed further transformations in calligraphic styles. The transition from the more fluid Li Shu to more structured forms was evident during this period. Calligraphers began experimenting with brush techniques, refining the individual strokes and the overall balance of the characters. The emerging styles, known as “Wei Bei” (Wei Stele Inscriptions), showcased a transition towards the clarity and precision that would characterize Kaishu. This period was a crucible for experimenting with new forms and stroke techniques. During the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420 – 589 AD), styles continued to evolve, often exhibiting regional variations. While formal Kaishu was not yet established, the inscriptions and manuscript fragments from this era clearly demonstrate a move toward more standardized and easily readable characters. The exploration of stroke variations and character structure during this time was essential for the later formalization of Kaishu. It provided a rich ground of experimentation and refinement. By the late Sui Dynasty (581 – 618 AD), just before the Tang, the seeds of Kaishu were firmly planted. The scripts were exhibiting a clear structure, with distinct strokes and a focus on clarity and legibility. The style displayed a near-standardized form, moving away from the more calligraphic styles of earlier scripts. This pivotal moment set the stage for the flourishing of Kaishu in the Tang Dynasty. The Sui Dynasty served as the culmination of the pre-Tang evolution of Kaishu. |
Tag : Pre-Tang Kaishu, Early Regular Script, Han Dynasty calligraphy, Wei Dynasty calligraphy, Li Shu development
This article provides guidance on learning Tang Kaishu, outlining resources such as studying the masters, consulting calligraphy manuals, utilizing online tools, and highlighting the importance of consistent practice for aspiring calligraphers.
This article explores the methods and practices of calligraphy education in pre-Tang China, detailing the family-based or apprenticeship systems, rote copying of exemplary works, use of calligraphic manuals, and how education helped to pass down valuable skills and traditions.
This essay will trace the historical evolution of kaishu, from its earliest origins to its contemporary interpretations, examining how the script has transformed over time while maintaining its core structural principles. We begin with an overview of the developmental phases of Chinese scripts leading up to the emergence of kaishu. This historical context underscores how the script developed as a refinement of its predecessors. We will discuss how kaishu emerged from earlier script styles, including the Clerical script (隶书), highlighting the crucial transformation that led to the more formalized structure that defines kaishu.
The Tang Dynasty marks a golden era in the development of kaishu, with two towering figures, Ouyang Xun and Yan Zhenqing, representing contrasting yet equally profound approaches to the script. This essay will explore and compare the distinctive styles of these two masters, showcasing the diverse possibilities within the formal framework of kaishu. We will start by analyzing Ouyang Xun's style, highlighting his refined elegance and meticulous precision. His calligraphy is characterized by a structured, geometric approach, where each character is crafted with precise strokes, carefully balanced proportions, and an overall sense of composure. We will look at examples of his work, emphasizing the sharp lines, subtle variations in thickness, and the consistent spacing, all of which contributes to his distinctive style of dignified refinement.
This article examines the robust and rugged style of calligraphy from the Northern Dynasties, showcasing their bold strokes and angular characters, contrasting with the elegance of the Southern Dynasties, and contributing to the diversity of early Kaishu forms.