Zhao Guni Yinshu - Collection of Changshu Museum

Author: None
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-01
Features: Seal carving, which was initially presumed to be practical seals made by craftsmen during the Shang Dynasty, gradually evolved into a transitional form involving the collaboration of stone engraving and carving. It was not until the Song and Yuan dynasties that it truly became an iron-pen art for scholars and literati to express their sentiments. The exploration of seal-carving theory that emerged after the Song Dynasty can be regarded as a milestone, recognizing and confirming its independence and maturity, ultimately blossoming as a unique gem in the garden of traditional Chinese cultural arts. In modern seal-carving circles, apart from the few distinguished masters such as Wu Changshuo of Anji, Zhejiang, Qi Baishi of Xiangtan, Hunan, and Huang Mufu of Anhui County, the most revered figure is Yue Guni of Changshu, a land of cultural prosperity in Jiangnan.
Zhao Guni (1874–1933), styled Shi, known as Shiniu, and also known by the names Guni, Huisheng, and Nidao Ren, was born into poverty but achieved success through hard study. All his knowledge in seal carving, calligraphy, painting, poetry, and prose was a precious accumulation built over decades of diligent study and exploration alongside his work. Second, he followed a proper path of learning, benefiting greatly from the guidance of masters such as Wu Changshuo and Weng Tongshu. Third, he possessed the ability to innovate and transform. Fourth, he had exceptional natural talent. Fifth, he had excellent personal character.
Zhao Shiniu’s calligraphy and seal carving were renowned as "Songchan Calligraphy and Kufei Seals." In the past, due to the lack of media promotion, his disciple Zheng Sanmu played a significant role in disseminating his art. This book is a specialized promotion of Zhao Guni, featuring essays, critiques, and the publication of numerous of his calligraphy and seal-carving works.