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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 focuses on Ouyang Xun, highlighting his mastery of structure and precision in Tang Kaishu, his meticulous brushstrokes, balanced compositions, his famous “Jiucheng Palace Stele,” and his lasting influence on the script.
Explore the connection between Regular Script (Kaishu) and Zen mindfulness. Learn how the practice of calligraphy can cultivate focus, presence, and inner peace.
This essay will trace the historical evolution of kaishu, from its earliest origins to its contemporary interpretations, examining how the script has transformed over time while maintaining its core structural principles. We begin with an overview of the developmental phases of Chinese scripts leading up to the emergence of kaishu. This historical context underscores how the script developed as a refinement of its predecessors. We will discuss how kaishu emerged from earlier script styles, including the Clerical script (隶书), highlighting the crucial transformation that led to the more formalized structure that defines kaishu.
This article explores the role of calligraphy in Tang Dynasty education, highlighting how the practice was considered essential for intellectual and moral development, and how it formed a fundamental part of the curriculum for students of the era.
This article explores the contributions of Zhong Yao, a pivotal figure in early Kaishu development, highlighting his influence through elegant brushwork, a balanced form, and refined composition, showing how he bridged the gap between Li Shu and the emerging Regular Script.