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The Sui Dynasty (581-618 AD), although relatively short-lived, played a crucial role in the development of Kaishu calligraphy, representing a culmination of all the experimentation and variations that had taken place in previous dynasties. The calligraphy of this period shows a movement towards the standardization and formalization of Regular Script, laying the groundwork for the flourishing of Kaishu in the Tang Dynasty. It was a crucial bridge in the evolution of the script, marking the transition to the formal style. Sui Dynasty calligraphy exhibited a clearer and more balanced style, showcasing a convergence of the diverse regional variations that had emerged in the Southern and Northern Dynasties. The strokes became more defined, with a greater emphasis on clear starting and ending points. The characters, while retaining some individuality, displayed a growing degree of uniformity. The emphasis on standardization created the foundation for the more formal style. The use of brush techniques became increasingly refined, with calligraphers paying closer attention to subtle variations in pressure, angle, and speed. The characters show that they were creating a more defined style with new techniques. The more detailed techniques of the brush show a clear emphasis on refining the style. The Sui Dynasty calligraphic style can be seen in both stele inscriptions and manuscript copies, reflecting an increasing level of both formality and flexibility. The manuscript styles of the era showed a transition towards a more unified and standardized form, preparing the way for the widespread adoption of Kaishu in the succeeding Tang Dynasty. Both the informal and formal versions moved towards the formal style. The calligraphic achievements of the Sui Dynasty are significant because they represent a crucial transition between the early stages of Kaishu development and the fully established Regular Script of the Tang. By studying Sui Dynasty examples, we can observe the final stage of evolution before the formal style was adopted. The Sui style is a pivotal step in calligraphy development. |
Tag : Sui Dynasty calligraphy, pre-Tang Kaishu, early Regular Script, Chinese calligraphy, Tang Dynasty transition
This article discusses the significant role of the Tang Dynasty’s imperial court in shaping Kaishu, highlighting the emperors' patronage, the need for standardized writing for governance, and how this influence helped refine the 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 explores the enduring legacy of Tang Kaishu, highlighting its standardization of Regular Script, the influence of its masters (Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhenqing, Liu Gongquan), its impact on East Asian calligraphy, and its continued relevance to calligraphers today.
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.
This article explores the impact of the Three Kingdoms period on early Kaishu, detailing how regional differences and the need for clear communication spurred innovation in stroke structure and character composition, bridging the gap between Li Shu and later Kaishu forms.