Han Stele: From Copying to Creation

Author: Jin Xiaoping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: This book, through numerous examples and extensive discussions, aims to address the following issues:
1. A brief overview of the origins and developmental trajectory of clerical script.
2. A comparative analysis of classic Han steles of different styles (with a focus on the Eastern Han period) and their technical characteristics.
3. Through the imitations of renowned calligraphers from later generations, it showcases their diverse selections and the profound influence of Han-era and subsequent calligraphers on their creative works, exploring the relationship between imitation and creation, and between learning from tradition and innovation.
From the Han steles introduced in this book, we see how striking and technically exquisite the style of Han clerical script, especially from the Eastern Han period, truly is. Later generations of calligraphers, particularly those from the Qing dynasty, achieved creative developments and accomplishments in the art of clerical script. From their artistic practices, it becomes evident that learning from the ancients should be done through research-driven, independent thinking. One must rationally analyze the techniques and forms of predecessors while also exercising subjective initiative, incorporating personal character and abilities into a free space. Through imitation, one can achieve a conceptual transformation, thereby completing a scientific continuation of the excellent tradition. Imitation and borrowing are foundational and means, while expressing oneself is the ultimate goal of calligraphy.
On the other hand, ancient works should be treated differently—some are suitable for appreciation, while others are suitable for learning from. One should neither blindly accept nor entirely doubt them. Additionally, while studying Han steles, one should also learn from the works of predecessors from different eras. Their outstanding achievements lie not only in inheriting the essence of tradition but also in creating values that reflect their times, offering wisdom, ideas, and spirit to inspire future generations.
The works of successful calligraphers, whether through imitation or creation, reflect their respective choices of masters and their ability to absorb and integrate influences. Moreover, they often bear distinct personal marks, which are reflections of the calligrapher’s cultural cultivation and personal charm. Such reflections are often multi-layered and multi-faceted.