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Regular Script, or Kaishu, stands as one of the most important and widely practiced styles of Chinese calligraphy. Often considered the standard script, it's characterized by its clear, structured, and balanced forms. Unlike other cursive or semi-cursive styles, Kaishu emphasizes precision, meticulousness, and adherence to established rules, making it both a foundational skill and a highly refined art form. It’s the first style many students learn, serving as a basis for other forms of calligraphy. The development of Kaishu can be traced back to the late Han Dynasty, and it reached its peak during the Tang Dynasty. It evolved from the more free-flowing Lishu (Clerical Script), becoming more regularized and standardized. The shift to Kaishu reflected a growing need for a legible and efficient script for official documentation and widespread communication. Over time, it became the predominant style used in printing and education. The key features of Kaishu include distinct, individual strokes, clear separation between characters, and an overall sense of equilibrium. Each stroke, from the horizontal to the vertical, from the upward to the downward, has its specific form and position, contributing to the overall balance. The structure of characters follows precise rules regarding proportion and spacing, ensuring readability and aesthetic harmony. The practice of Kaishu requires patience, concentration, and a deep understanding of calligraphic principles. Beginners often start by tracing model works, gradually progressing to practicing characters independently. Mastering the fundamental strokes is essential for moving to more complex character compositions. This practice is a lifelong pursuit, as the quest for perfection is continuous. The influence of Kaishu extends far beyond the practice of calligraphy. Its aesthetic principles and structured forms have impacted various other fields, from architecture to graphic design. Its legacy is a vital part of Chinese culture, offering a tangible connection to history, language, and artistic tradition. |
Tag : Regular script, kaishu, Chinese calligraphy, standard script, calligraphy styles
This article discusses the immense influence of Wang Xizhi on pre-Tang Kaishu, highlighting how his mastery of technique, emphasis on balance, and understanding of rhythm impacted all styles of calligraphy and shaped the development of Regular Script.
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 discusses the calligraphic innovations of the mid-Tang period, highlighting how artists moved beyond established Kaishu styles, experimenting with new stroke techniques, character forms, and individual expression, adding diversity to the script’s development.
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 social status of calligraphers during the Tang Dynasty, highlighting how different groups, from scholar-officials to professional artisans and Buddhist monks, shaped the development of the script with their unique social contexts and values.