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Yan Zhenqing (顏真卿), a prominent calligrapher of the mid-Tang Dynasty, brought a distinctive style to Kaishu characterized by boldness, expressiveness, and a profound sense of integrity. Unlike the more restrained styles of some of his predecessors, Yan Zhenqing's characters exhibit a powerful energy and dynamic flow that reflect his personality and the tumultuous times in which he lived. His works are an excellent example of how calligraphic expression can reveal the calligrapher’s character. Yan Zhenqing's calligraphy is known for its strength and robustness. His strokes are often thick and forceful, conveying a sense of dynamism and conviction. His lines are bold and powerful and show both his confidence and his unique style. The bold strokes he used set him apart from his contemporaries. Beyond technical skill, Yan Zhenqing imbued his calligraphy with a sense of moral purpose, reflecting his upright character and unwavering commitment to social justice. His calligraphy is not merely beautiful; it’s also a reflection of his inner values. The strength of the characters mirrored the strength of his character. One of Yan Zhenqing’s most famous works is the “Yan Family Ancestral Temple Stele,” which exemplifies his unique style. This stele demonstrates his powerful brushwork, his unique approach to composition, and the emotional depth of his calligraphy. This work is considered a masterpiece of calligraphy from that era. Yan Zhenqing's contribution to Kaishu was not just technical, but also an expansion of the emotional range that the script could convey. He demonstrated how even a structured script like Kaishu could express profound emotions, setting a new standard for calligraphy. His work changed how future artists approached calligraphy. |
Tag : Yan Zhenqing calligraphy, Tang Dynasty masters, expressive Kaishu, Chinese calligraphy, Yan Family Stele
This article details the significant influence of Li Shu (Clerical Script) on the development of early Kaishu, explaining how its standardized strokes, balance, and techniques provided the essential foundation for Regular Script's emergence.
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.
The final essay in this series will synthesize the key themes discussed throughout, culminating in an understanding of how the seemingly rigid structure of kaishu creates a universe of balanced proportions and profound beauty. We will reiterate the central principles of kaishu—the “永字八法” (Yong character’s eight principles), structural proportions, and the consistent application of technical skills—emphasizing how these principles combine to create the script’s characteristic order. We will discuss how this structured approach provides a framework for expressive possibilities, where even minute variations can have a significant impact on the aesthetic character of the work.
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.
Discover practical tips and techniques for beginners starting with Regular Script (Kaishu). Learn about tools, stroke practice, and essential steps to begin your calligraphy journey.