Selected Calligraphic Masterpieces Through the Ages Song Cai Xiang "Ten Variations in Running Script" (Song Cai Xiang)

Author: Jiang Yin
Publisher: Xiling Press
Publication Date: 2004-07-01
Features: Cai Xiang (1012-1067), styled Junmo, was a native of Xianyang, Fujian. He held the position of Academician of the Endymion Hall. The Biographies section of the History of the Song Dynasty describes him as follows: "Cai Xiang excelled in calligraphy, regarded as the best of his time, and Emperor Renzong admired him greatly." Among the "Four Masters of Song Calligraphy," Cai Xiang ranks chronologically before Su Shi, Huang Tingjian, and Mi Fu. Of the Four Masters, Su Shi, Huang Tingjian, and Mi Fu are renowned for their running script and semi-cursive styles, while Cai Xiang preferred the regular script. His calligraphy was influenced by Wang Xizhi, Yan Zhenqing, and Liu Gongquan, characterized as being robust, dignified, majestic, and elegant. Su Dongpo once remarked: "Junmo possessed exceptional natural talent and profound learning, with a harmonious connection between mind and hand, resulting in endless transformations. Thus, he became the best calligrapher of our dynasty." Cai Xiang was a loyal and upright person with extensive knowledge, and his calligraphy was described as "upright, vigorous, ancient, and noble, embodying both moral integrity and artistry." His work Inscription on Yan Zhenqing's Self-Commissioned Official Document reflects the style of Yan Gong while refining it, serving as an exemplary model. Shen Kuo praised him for his skill in creating "scattered brush calligraphy," also known as "floating grass," which was born from the technique of flying white and formed his own unique style. This shows that Cai Xiang, a calligrapher who lacked revolutionary spirit, was not rigidly bound to tradition. He also pursued ancient charm and strived for innovation. The book is printed in double colors in a 20-page format, with a scroll-like binding of folded leaves. It includes works such as Letter to Yan You, Letter to Yan You the Attendant, Letter to Gongjin, Letter to Du Jun the Magistrate, Letter to Tongliang the, Letter to Sanqu, Inscription on Clear Heart Hall Paper, Letter to Xie Lang, and Letter to Lord of the Ministry.