Classical Chinese Inscriptions and Steles – Chu Suiliang’s Anle Temple Stele

Author: Compiled by the Publishing House
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-12-01
Features: Among the famous "Four Treasures of Linchuan" in the inscriptions of regular script, namely the "Qifashi Stele," "Confucius Temple Hall Stele," "Mengfashi Stele," and "Shancai Temple Stele," all four are rare single copies of Song dynasty prints, once collected by Li Zonghan of Linchuan. Wei Qiwu, with an unknown birth and death date, was approximately a contemporary of Emperor Xuanzong of the Ming dynasty. His calligraphy style was influenced by Chu Suiliang. During the Tang dynasty, many calligraphers studied Chu's style, including the renowned Xue Yao, Xue Ji, Lü Xiang, and Zhong Shaojing. Even famous calligraphers of the mid-Tang dynasty, Yan Zhenqing and Liu Gongquan, initially learned from Chu's style. Mao Zhifeng stated in "A Study of the Origins of Stele Calligraphy" that: "Since Chu's calligraphy flourished, Tang dynasty regular script could not escape its influence. From the Xianqing to Kaiyuan eras, over 90% of the famous stele inscriptions followed Chu's style, and all the prints are preserved, allowing for study." This demonstrates the widespread influence of Chu Suiliang's calligraphy. Liu Xizai in "A General Overview of Calligraphy" described Chu as the "Great Educator of the Tang dynasty," a title truly well-deserved. This book is part of the "Classics of Chinese Stele and Manuscript" series, showcasing Chu Suiliang's "Shancai Temple Hall Stele" to readers. The characters in this stele are well-balanced, with round and flowing brushwork, and elegant and refined composition. This stele not only holds immense artistic and collection value but also allows calligraphy enthusiasts to appreciate the ideal realm of classical Chinese calligraphy—softness containing toughness, outwardly gentle yet inwardly strong. Beginners can study each character's brushwork, structure, and arrangement for practice. This stele is undoubtedly a rare gem and can be considered the best model for beginners.