Liu

Author: Yang Lu, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-01-01
Features: For thousands of years, people have continuously explored and researched the rules and principles of beautifying regular script, with outstanding contributions from figures such as Zhi Yong in the Sui Dynasty, Zhang Huaiquan and Ouyang Xun in the Tang Dynasty, Chen Xizeng in the Yuan Dynasty, Li Chun and Jiang Ligang in the Ming Dynasty, Wang Peng and Jiang Heng in the Qing Dynasty, and Huang Ziyou in the late Qing Dynasty. He compiled the Summary of 92 Methods for Frame Structure in Regular Script (later known as Huang Ziyou's 92 Demonstrations of Regular Script Frame Structure). This work uses concise, parallel aphorisms and standard examples to list ninety types of frame structures in regular script.
For over nine hundred years, this collection has played a significant role in teaching regular script, and some aphorisms have been passed down orally, such as "No character has two feet" and "Horizontal strokes are long, while sweeping strokes are short, no need for dots." These aphorisms were likely derived from the 92 Methods.
Based on these four shortcomings, the 92 Methods series of calligraphy books, categorized by the styles of Ouyang, Yan, Liu, and Zhao, analyzes the essence of major regular script works. Each style is compiled in separate volumes, selecting typical examples and aligning the aphorisms with the corresponding calligraphic forms. The ninety-two methods are revised according to the characteristics of each regular script style, ensuring consistency. Absolute and one-sided phrases are corrected for appropriateness, and vague entries are clarified with alternative methods.
The Categorized 92 Methods series inherits Huang's concise, parallel aphorisms to facilitate memorization and use. To aid in accurately understanding and applying the various rules, the series includes an explanatory text for the ninety methods, a simplified character ( means "comparison table"), and relevant calligraphy knowledge.
Because the Categorized 92 Methods series addresses the shortcomings of Huang's original work and corrects errors in derivative works, it has gained attention from calligraphy researchers. It is also hoped that it will serve as a stepping stone for learners of regular script and be widely welcomed by calligraphy enthusiasts!