The Concept of "Shu Qie" in Xieyi
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"Shu Qie" (書契), often translated as "the written and the carved," is a concept in Chinese art that underscores the connection between calligraphy and seal carving, also having a profound impact on the practice of Xieyi painting. It emphasizes the shared qualities of line, form, and the expressive potential of these two art forms, also linking them to the greater tradition of Chinese art. It speaks to the unified nature of the expressive arts in China.  The study of both calligraphy and seal carving can deepen an artist’s understanding of brush control, line quality, and the power of the carved or written word. This understanding then informs the artist’s approach to Xieyi. Both forms require a mastery of the use of line as an expressive tool.  The techniques of calligraphy and seal carving, particularly the variations in line, the use of negative space, and the control of ink and carving tools, can all be seen in the expressive qualities of Xieyi brushwork. The underlying principles of both forms inform the aesthetic qualities of the Xieyi painting.  The application of a seal to a Xieyi painting is not just a signature but also an expression of artistic intent, often with the seal design and calligraphy acting as a miniature work of art in itself, adding an extra dimension to the artwork. The seals often contain calligraphic elements that enhance the overall quality of the painting. Understanding the connection between "the written and the carved" helps to appreciate the holistic nature of Chinese art, where the various art forms are intertwined and mutually enriching, all informing one another within the overall traditions. The understanding of this underlying connection informs a deeper understanding of the arts. |
Tag : Shu Qie, written and carved, calligraphy seals, Chinese art links, art tradition
Related information
- The Influence of Taoism on Xieyi Painting
- The Influence of the "Four Gentlemen" on Xieyi Subjects
- The Use of "Side Brush" in Xieyi
- The "Three Perfections" in Xieyi
- The Concept of "Baimiao" and its Relationship to Xieyi
Taoism, with its emphasis on living in harmony with nature, has significantly influenced the development of Xieyi painting. The Taoist concept of the Tao (道), the underlying principle of the universe, is reflected in the ways that Xieyi artists capture the flow of life.
The "Four Gentlemen" (sìjūnzǐ) – plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum – are highly revered subjects in Xieyi, each embodying distinct virtues like resilience, refinement, integrity, and longevity, serving as a rich source of inspiration for artists expressing a range of emotions and philosophical ideas.
The "Side Brush" (cèfēng) technique in Xieyi involves holding the brush at an angle to create strokes with distinct texture and varying width, allowing for greater expressiveness, dynamism, and effective depiction of textured surfaces and movement, a crucial skill for any Xieyi painter.
The "Three Perfections" (sānjué) – poetry, calligraphy, and painting – represent the holistic literati ideal, emphasizing the integration of these three art forms as a complete expression of the artist's personal feeling, thought, and their connection to tradition, with calligraphy’s influence often seen in Xieyi’s brushwork.
"Baimiao" (plain drawing) is a foundational technique in Chinese painting, emphasizing precise line drawing to define a subject's contours and forms, influencing Xieyi by shaping its underlying structure, informing composition, and contributing to the overall control and confidence seen in the best Xieyi works.