Ouyang Xun's handwriting of the Thousand Character Classic

Author: Wu Xujing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-11-01
Features: This Running Script "Thousand Characters" is written by Ouyang Xun based on Zhou Xingsi's original text. The Thousand Characters text has three known versions: one is the ancient script "Thousand Characters" copied by Wang Xizhi from Yao's script, another is the "Thousand Characters" composed by Xiao Zifan, and the third is the "Thousand Characters" composed by Zhou Xingsi. The first two versions are no longer extant. The "Thousand Characters" written by Ouyang Xun, as recorded, includes three copies, but only one survives today, making it exceptionally precious. This "Running Script Thousand Characters" exhibits an elegant and refined style, with a clear and bright spirit. The calligraphy features tall and graceful character structures, unique in spirit; the brushwork is methodical and effortless; and the strokes are impeccable. It can be said that this "Thousand Characters" with a clear and (steep) backbone has reached the desired realm of [ancient simplicity]. It lacks the tension and intensity often found in Ouyang's early works, having matured into a state of artistic perfection, transcending the ordinary and reaching a realm beyond words.