Wu Changshuo

Author: Bian Pingshu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-12-01
Features: This book is divided into six chapters, including Traditional Theory, The Theory of Painting Qi, and The Theory of Four Perfections, compiling the painting sayings of the Chinese painting master Wu Changshuo. It provides an in-depth analysis of his viewpoints. The nearly 200 exquisite paintings included offer visual interpretations of his calligraphy and painting theories, helping readers better understand Wu Changshuo's artworks and artistic theories.
Wu Changshuo (1844–1927), named Jun, styled Xiangbu, changed his name to Changshuo in middle age, and was also known as Kufei. He was from Anji. From a young age, he enjoyed seal carving and calligraphy, and was deeply engaged in the study of textual research. In 1896 (the 22nd year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty), Wu Changshuo briefly served as the magistrate of Jiangsu Anyang (now Lianshui County) and resigned after only one month. After that, he devoted himself to creation. In 1913, the Xiling Seal Society was officially established, and Wu Changshuo was elected as its president.
Wu Changshuo had profound expertise in seal carving, calligraphy, and painting. His painting style deeply absorbed the essence of Zhu Da, Shi Tao, and Xu Wei, while also being influenced by Ren Boqian. He combined the brushwork of seal script, clerical script, and, creating works with rich color and ink, powerful momentum, and grand. His works primarily feature flowers, grasses, orchids, chrysanthemums, and other plants and fruits, occasionally including landscapes and figures. He also authored works such as "Fulu Collection" and "Fulu Seal Collection."