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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 introduces the Tang Dynasty as the golden age of Kaishu calligraphy, highlighting its political and cultural context, its key figures (Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhenqing, and Liu Gongquan), and the defining characteristics of Tang Kaishu's balance, precision, and enduring influence.
This article discusses the importance of Tang Dynasty calligraphy manuals, noting their guidance on stroke execution, character composition, theoretical principles, and how these texts served as a resource for both practice and the preservation of tradition.
This article highlights the often overlooked role of women in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, showcasing contributions from imperial consorts, noblewomen, and Buddhist nuns, revealing their engagement with the art form and broadening our understanding of its cultural landscape.
This article discusses the influence of Tang Kaishu on Korean calligraphy (seoye), highlighting the adoption and adaptation of Chinese characters, the development of distinct Korean styles, and how the tradition of studying Tang calligraphy remains essential to seoye.
This article explores the early development of Kaishu calligraphy before the Tang Dynasty, highlighting its roots in Li Shu, and the transitional stages through the Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties, emphasizing the evolutionary process toward the standardized Tang Kaishu.