Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi's Small Regular Script

Author: Compiled by the Press
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2000-12-01
Features: The Eastern Jin Dynasty was a highly brilliant period in the history of Chinese calligraphy. It inherited the rustic style of the Han and Wei dynasties, modified ancient methods, and created a new style, thus pioneering a calligraphic tradition that blended the beauty of harmony and nature. The running script and small regular script of this era were characterized by a beauty that was both elegant and effortless, with a strong yet subtle structure, embodying both strength and gentleness. The calligraphic style of Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi, father and son, had a profound influence on later generations. At that time, some aristocratic families, to escape the class struggles of reality, retreated to the mountains and forests, engaged in philosophical discussions, and had a deep appreciation for calligraphy, dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to it. They used calligraphy to express their sentiments and ideals. The people of that time valued simplicity and emptiness, and with the spirit of "immersion in art," they transcended worldly desires, unconcerned with personal gains or losses. Thus, a cultural atmosphere of elegance and refinement was formed. The calligraphy of the Eastern Jin people excelled in charm and surpassed others in grace. Their works were characterized by a sparse yet flowing elegance, a natural and unrestrained charm, and a refined and transcendent style, free from the mundane world. This was the calligraphic style of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, and the small regular script of Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi exemplified a typical calligraphic style that was peaceful, simple, and ethereal.
Wang Xizhi, styled Yishao, was from Linyi, Shandong. He was born in the first year of the Yongjia era of Emperor Huai of the Jin Dynasty (307 AD) and died in the third year of the Xingning era of Emperor Ai of the Jin Dynasty (365 AD). Because he held the position of Right General, he was also known as Wang Youjun. At the age of eight, he secretly studied the calligraphy techniques hidden in his father's pillow and made great progress. Later, he studied calligraphy under the famous female calligrapher Le Shu. Due to his exceptional talent and insight, Wei Fen, another renowned calligrapher, was astonished by his handwriting and said, "This young man will surely surpass my reputation in calligraphy." His uncle, Wang Yu, was also a skilled calligrapher and greatly influenced him. Later, he traveled north and visited famous mountains, where he saw the calligraphy of Li Si and Cao Xi. In Luoyang, he admired Cai Yong's "Xiping Stone Classics," and from his cousin Wang Qian, he saw Zhang Chang's "Mount Hua Stele." His horizons broadened, and he realized that studying under Wei Fen was merely wasting time. He then devoted himself to intense study, practicing calligraphy tirelessly, absorbing various techniques, and ultimately creating his own unique style. Thus, he reached the height of "[superior to all others, unmatched in ancient and modern times]" and earned the title of "[Sage of Calligraphy]." Wang Xizhi's most outstanding achievements were in running script and cursive script, but his small regular script was also distinctive in its style.