Seeds of Kaishu: Early Development of Regular Script Before the Tang Dynasty

While the Tang Dynasty is often considered the golden age of Kaishu, the roots of this script style extend deep into the earlier dynasties of China. Before the standardization and refinement of Kaishu we see in the Tang, several important transitional scripts and calligraphic styles paved the way for its emergence. These early forms, while not yet the fully-developed Kaishu, displayed characteristics and elements that would later define the script, showing a fascinating evolution in Chinese writing. Understanding these early seeds of Kaishu reveals the historical journey of this iconic script.

The Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) saw the evolution of the Li Shu (Clerical Script) from earlier scripts. This marked a significant shift in the structure of characters, simplifying the strokes and making them more linear. While not yet Kaishu, the standardized and organized forms of Li Shu provided the groundwork for subsequent developments. The focus on horizontal strokes and vertical strokes, often seen in the Li Shu, was a foundational element that influenced the later regularization of Kaishu. This transitional phase played a pivotal role in the progression of Chinese calligraphy.

The Wei Dynasty (220-265 AD) and the Jin Dynasty (266-420 AD) witnessed further transformations in calligraphic styles. The transition from the more fluid Li Shu to more structured forms was evident during this period. Calligraphers began experimenting with brush techniques, refining the individual strokes and the overall balance of the characters. The emerging styles, known as “Wei Bei” (Wei Stele Inscriptions), showcased a transition towards the clarity and precision that would characterize Kaishu. This period was a crucible for experimenting with new forms and stroke techniques.

During the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420 – 589 AD), styles continued to evolve, often exhibiting regional variations. While formal Kaishu was not yet established, the inscriptions and manuscript fragments from this era clearly demonstrate a move toward more standardized and easily readable characters. The exploration of stroke variations and character structure during this time was essential for the later formalization of Kaishu. It provided a rich ground of experimentation and refinement.

By the late Sui Dynasty (581 – 618 AD), just before the Tang, the seeds of Kaishu were firmly planted. The scripts were exhibiting a clear structure, with distinct strokes and a focus on clarity and legibility. The style displayed a near-standardized form, moving away from the more calligraphic styles of earlier scripts. This pivotal moment set the stage for the flourishing of Kaishu in the Tang Dynasty. The Sui Dynasty served as the culmination of the pre-Tang evolution of Kaishu.