Zong Ke Ji Jiu Zhang

Author: Song Kezheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: Cangcao (Zhangcao) emerged during the Han Dynasty as a standardized and organized form of Cao Lì (a simplified and rapid script derived from Lìshū). Each character stands independently, with strokes not connected by hooks. It incorporates the fluid transitions of Cao script while emphasizing the wave-like strokes of Lìshū, with distinctive structural and compositional characteristics. Cangcao almost faded into obscurity during the Tang Dynasty. During the Song Dynasty, Cai Xiang, and in the Yuan Dynasty, Zhao Meng and Deng Wenyuan, attempted to revive this art, but their influence was limited. Song Ke, however, immersed himself in the works of Huang Xiang and Suojing, establishing a unique style by blending the flexible and dynamic essence of modern Cao script. This resulted in an artistic style distinct from the ancient tradition's robust and rustic simplicity.
This scroll, Jiju Zhang (also known as Jiju Pian), is his masterpiece created at the age of 60, inspired by Huang Xiang's Jiju Zhang. It is described as "pure in meaning and beauty," yet it diverges from Huang Xiang's original in appearance. The script is expansive, with elongated characters, slender yet upright strokes, and pronounced variations in thickness. The rhythm is lively and dynamic, with a fresh and classical aura. Compared to Jiju Zhang by calligraphers like Zhao Meng and Deng Wenyuan, this version is even more vivid, brilliant, and emotionally resonant.
Originally titled Jiju Pian, this work was compiled by Shi You, the Yellow Gate Commandant during the Western Han Dynasty's Yuan Emperor. Shi You organized the most commonly used characters into three-word, four-word, and seven-word rhyming verses, categorizing them by surname, clothing, agriculture, diet, utensils, music, physiology, weapons, birds, beasts, medicine, and human affairs ("separating them into distinct sections"). The text was designed for easy memorization while remaining practical, serving as a foundational primer for children from the Han, Wei, to the Tang Dynasties. The first line is "Jiju qige yu zhong yi," from which the first two characters were taken to name the piece.