Li Yong Running Script Structure of 92 Methods

Author: Hanhai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-01-01
Features: Running script is one of the most perfect styles in Chinese calligraphy that unifies practicality and artistry. The ancients said: "Regular script is like standing, running script is like walking, cursive script is like running (or rushing)." Walking, in this context, means to stroll gracefully, to move leisurely. The running script, while being convenient to write, also embodies the characteristics of elegance, liveliness, and diverse forms. Running script is divided into two sub-styles: running regular script, which leans towards regular script, and running cursive script, which leans towards cursive script. Wang Xizhi and Li Yong's running script works are mostly running regular script, while Wang Xuanzhi and Mi Fu's running script works are mostly running cursive script. Wang Xizhi, Wang Xuanzhi, Li Yong, and Mi Fu are universally recognized as great masters of running script. Their works share commonalities yet exhibit distinct styles, each with its own unique strengths.
Wang Xizhi, styled Yishao, was a Jin dynasty figure. His running script in structure and brushwork is natural yet full of variation, establishing a model for later generations' running script. Subsequent masters of running script have all followed his principles. This series of books features Wang Xizhi's running script, selected from The Collection of Wang Xizhi's Works on the Holy Teachings, compiled by Huairen. Although this stele was compiled from Wang Xizhi's characters, it is a precious surviving work that embodies the essence of Wang's running script, particularly in running regular script style.
Wang Xuanzhi, styled Zijin, was Wang Xizhi's son. His running script was influenced by his father but also innovated boldly. The structure and brushwork are expansive and continuous, with characters often connected in sequence, and many incorporating elements of cursive script. This series of books includes several short letters by Wang Xuanzhi, offering a glimpse of his style.
Li Yong, styled Taihe, was a Tang dynasty figure. Li Yong's running script is particularly suitable for beginners. This is because his structure and brushwork are mostly in running regular script style, with a robust and dynamic posture, and characters that are spacious and clear. This series of books features Li Yong's running script, using his famous Stele of Li Sixin, vividlying the innovative style of Tang dynasty running script.
Mi Fu, styled Yuanzhang, was a Song dynasty figure. Mi Fu's running script has many surviving ink traces, characterized by boldness and dynamic variation. The transitions between strokes are fluid, with a sense of momentum. The ink tones range from dry to wet, light to dark, and exhibit extreme variation. This series of books includes multiple works by Mi Fu, revealing his heroic spirit amidst extraordinary elegance.
Since running script follows natural principles, the structure of characters in a single piece varies in size, length, curvature, shape, and slant. This series of books enlarges the works to a certain proportion, but differences in size still exist. Please note this accordingly.