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The concept of "bone structure" (gufa, 骨法) is a fundamental principle in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, referring to the underlying structure and strength of the strokes that give each character its solidity and form. This concept emphasizes the importance of underlying support and visual balance in the construction of calligraphy. This underlying structure provided a foundation for the entire work. The "bone structure" of a character is not visible as such, but it is felt through the strength and balance of the strokes. It refers to the internal structure of the character, much like bones provide structure to the human body. The underlying structure is essential to the visual effect of the calligraphy. A character with a strong "bone structure" will appear to be both solid and balanced. The strokes will be well-defined and will have a sense of inherent stability. The balance of the stroke gives the character a sense of inner strength. The sense of solidity is a key aspect of the best calligraphy. The concept of "bone structure" also emphasizes the importance of a well-defined beginning, middle, and end for each stroke, creating a sense of purpose and direction. Each stroke should have a clearly defined beginning and ending, similar to the joints of the human skeleton. The sense of structural integrity is essential to good calligraphy. The mastery of "bone structure" is a key goal for any calligrapher seeking to master the art of Tang Kaishu. Understanding this concept is essential to truly understanding the inner structure of calligraphy. The internal structure of the characters is a key element of Tang calligraphy. |
Tag : calligraphy bone structure, gufa, Tang Kaishu principles, Chinese calligraphy, stroke strength
This article explores the enduring legacy of Tang Kaishu, highlighting its standardization of Regular Script, the influence of its masters (Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhenqing, Liu Gongquan), its impact on East Asian calligraphy, and its continued relevance to calligraphers today.
The "Four Great Masters" are a group of highly celebrated calligraphers, primarily from the Tang Dynasty, who are recognized for their exceptional contributions to Regular Script calligraphy. They are:Yan Zhenqing(颜真卿) Liu Gongquan (柳公权) Ouyang Xun (欧阳询) Zhao Mengfu (赵孟頫)
The aesthetic impact of kaishu is deeply intertwined with the intricate technicalities of its brushwork, where each stroke is a carefully executed expression of the calligrapher’s skill and artistic vision. This essay will focus on analyzing the nuances of these individual strokes, demonstrating how they combine to form a visual language. We will begin by revisiting the “永字八法” (Yong character’s eight principles), which are the foundational strokes of kaishu. We will go beyond a mere description of the strokes to analyze the nuances of their execution, looking at the specific angles, speeds, and pressures required to achieve their intended forms. The emphasis is on how the brush moves across the paper, and the subtle transitions in each stroke.
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