Ming Zhang Ruitu's Running Script Calligraphy of Du Fu's Poem

Author: Compiled by the Press
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-01-01
Features: Zhang Ruitu (1570–1641) (Ming Dynasty), styled Wuhua, styled Changgong, styled Ershui, styled Jiezi Jushi. Born in Jinjiang, Fujian. He passed the imperial examination in the 35th year of the Wanli reign (1607), ranked first in the palace examination, and was appointed as a compiler in the Hanlin Academy. Later, he joined the inner court. In the 2nd year of the Chongzhen reign (1629), he was sentenced to exile for his involvement in the rebellious case and was released from punishment to live as a commoner. After the age of 60, he became deeply devoted to Buddhism, retreated to the mountains and marshes, and devoted himself to Zen practice. His calligraphy is extraordinary, able to carve out a new path distinct from his predecessors. He excels in using the oblique brush to enter and exit horizontally, with structures that are spontaneous and unrestrained. His strokes are fierce, with sharp, square turns and swirling, jumping movements, full of emotional impact. His artistic achievements are undeniable. This scroll in running and cursive script can be considered a fine piece of Zhang's calligraphy.