Evolved from Clerical Script around the late Han Dynasty to the early Tang Dynasty. Became the standard script for printing and handwriting throughout history. Often the first script students learn when studying calligraphy due to its foundational nature. Still used widely for modern printing, handwriting, formal texts, and many traditional calligraphy practices. Considered the foundation of good penmanship.
This article explores the future of research on Tang Kaishu, highlighting how new archaeological discoveries, digital tools, and theoretical approaches are enhancing our understanding of the script, ensuring the continued study and appreciation of this timeless art form.
This article explores the influence of Tang Kaishu on Vietnamese calligraphy (thư pháp), highlighting the adoption and adaptation of Chinese characters, the development of unique Vietnamese styles, and how the tradition of studying Tang calligraphy remains influential in Vietnam.
This article examines the interplay between tradition and innovation in Tang Kaishu development, highlighting how calligraphers both respected the established rules while also exploring new techniques, creating a dynamic and evolving art form.
This article explores the concept of "bone structure" (gufa) in Tang Kaishu, highlighting its importance as the underlying support and strength of the strokes, contributing to the solidity and balance of the characters, and the need for well-defined strokes.
This article examines the role of space (bai) in Tang Kaishu composition, highlighting the calligraphers’ meticulous management of both positive and negative space within and around characters and lines, and its essential contribution to balance and harmony.
This article explores the influence of Tang Kaishu on modern Chinese typography, highlighting how its clarity, structure, and elegance have inspired the creation of new fonts, which designers use for branding, packaging, and advertising, demonstrating the continued relevance of this ancient script.
This article provides a closer look at the materials and tools used in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, detailing the types of brushes, ink, paper, and other implements, and how these components influenced the overall quality and style of the art form.
This article examines the practical and spiritual use of Tang Kaishu for copying Buddhist sutras, highlighting how the act was a form of devotion, required focus and mindfulness, and contributed to the dissemination of Buddhist teachings.
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 Tang Kaishu on architectural design, highlighting how calligraphic inscriptions adorned buildings, served both decorative and communicative purposes, and showcased the interconnectedness of various art forms in Tang society.