Tang Zhan, "The Sutra of the King of the Wheel"

Author: Xu Hongliu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: From the works that have been passed down, it can be seen that the calligraphers who copied scriptures also had certain conventions and formats. For example, they would first draw ink lines on the specially prepared paper for writing scriptures, then write the name of the scripture at the beginning of the scroll, followed by the scripture text, and finally indicate the number of sheets used or the volume number of the scripture copied. Some even signed their names as the calligraphers or attached dedicatory texts. Additionally, according to the Xuanhe Shupu (Imperial Collection of Calligraphy), skilled calligraphers who copied scriptures "maintained self-discipline" and "wrote thousands of characters consistently without losing their place," with their brushwork "wavy yet deliberate, never sloppy." Their intention and brushwork were upright and rigorous, which was commendable. This means that when copying scriptures, the calligraphers had to have a reverent and sincere attitude, free from distractions, calm and composed, with a clear mind, fully immersed in the role, even entering a mystical state. Secondly, they also had to balance speed and quality—copying quickly without wasting time or affecting their income, while maintaining neatness for those who recited the scriptures to read them easily. In this way, the style, characteristics, and conventions of the "scripture-writing script" gradually took shape. Due to its role in spreading Buddhist teachings and expanding the role of calligraphy in cultivating the masses, it has always attracted widespread attention.