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The study of Tang Dynasty Kaishu can be greatly enhanced by examining the diverse styles and techniques employed in various stele inscriptions. These monumental stone carvings, each with their unique historical context and purpose, showcase the evolution of Kaishu over the course of the dynasty, revealing the dynamic nature of the art form. Studying the stele inscriptions gives an overview of the various approaches and styles used at the time. Early Tang steles often reflected the styles of Ouyang Xun, emphasizing structure, precision, and balanced proportions. These inscriptions served as models for later calligraphers, helping to solidify the early standards of the script. The early steles demonstrated a more rigorous approach to design and structure. Mid-Tang steles sometimes showcased the influence of Yan Zhenqing, with bold, powerful strokes and a more expressive and emotional tone. These inscriptions reflected the more expressive approach to the Kaishu style that became popular during the mid-Tang period. The mid-Tang stele inscriptions demonstrated the shift towards expressive calligraphic styles. Late Tang steles often exhibited the elegant and refined styles of Liu Gongquan, emphasizing subtlety, balance, and meticulously controlled strokes. These styles reflected the later refinements that artists made to the script over time. The refined styles of Liu Gongquan became very prevalent in later stele inscriptions. Examining stele inscriptions from different periods of the Tang Dynasty provides a valuable overview of how Kaishu evolved, highlighting both continuity and change in calligraphic practice. This study helps to show how the art form changed over time, while retaining many of the same basic components. This study provides an important overview of the script’s evolution. |
Tag : Tang stele inscriptions, Kaishu evolution, calligraphy styles, Chinese art history, Tang Dynasty calligraphy
Explore the work of famous calligraphers who mastered Kaishu, including Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhenqing, and Liu Gongquan. Learn about their unique styles and their significant contributions to Regular Script.
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.
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 explores the emotional range of Tang Kaishu, highlighting how calligraphers used brushstrokes, ink density, and composition to convey a wide spectrum of human emotions, demonstrating the expressive power of this seemingly formal script.
This article explores the influence of Confucianism on Tang calligraphy, highlighting its impact on the content, the practice, and the underlying moral values associated with the art, revealing how moral and ethical considerations permeated the creative process.