Qing Dynasty calligraphy

Author: Shan Guoqiang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-12-01
Features: The Qing Dynasty can be considered a period of revival in the history of Chinese calligraphy. The achievements in calligraphy far surpass those in painting. Its main is the rise and prosperity of stele calligraphy, which not only achieved illustrious accomplishments comparable to over a thousand years of "slip calligraphy" but also continued to influence modern and contemporary times with its burgeoning momentum. The Palace Museum houses a vast collection of Qing Dynasty calligraphy manuscripts, the most numerous and diverse in the history of calligraphy collections, covering almost all schools and masters. It preserves a large number of calligraphy works by Qing emperors and officials, allowing for a comprehensive and systematic of the development and evolution of Qing Dynasty calligraphy while highlighting the inherent characteristics of the imperial court's calligraphic style. Through the connection and comparison of calligraphy from both the court and the public, a more specific and objective understanding of the historical context, subjective and objective reasons behind the changes in Qing Dynasty calligraphy, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of various schools, can be achieved. The achievements of the revival of Qing Dynasty calligraphy are primarily reflected in the following aspects: First, a group of influential masters of stele calligraphy emerged, who established new schools, such as Deng Shiru, Yi Binghuan, He Shaoji, Zhao Ziqian, and Wu Lushuo. Second, the seal script and clerical script, which had been dormant for hundreds of years, were revitalized and underwent a transformation, forming new styles and schools. Third, the various scripts—seal script, clerical script, cursive script, and regular script—mutually borrowed and blended, creating diverse forms such as incorporating clerical script into seal script, writing cursive script with seal script, interweaving cursive and clerical scripts, and combining clerical script with regular script. These innovations broke new ground and created fresh styles. Fourth, the transition from "slip calligraphy" to stele calligraphy not only promoted the maturity of stele calligraphy but also led "slip calligraphy" to change course, drawing on the strengths of stele calligraphy, breaking through conventions, and presenting new opportunities for renewal.