Letter left behind

Author: Shanghai Library
Publisher: Shanghai Science and Technology Literature Press
Publication Date: 2000-12-01
Features: Letters are a general term for written correspondence. Since ancient times, whether in the verification of historical records or the compilation of literary collections, there has been great emphasis on collecting letters. The works of Zhong Yao and Wang Xizhi, in particular, are regarded as exemplary in calligraphy. With the passage of time, old letters have become increasingly rare, and authentic originals are even more precious. The Shanghai Library houses tens of thousands of original letters from the Ming, Qing, and modern periods, ranking first among libraries in China. These treasures are as precious as pearls and jade, invaluable and rare. The sixteen pieces selected for this collection are all from the hands of renowned scholars and calligraphers and painters. While their calligraphic works may be widely circulated, their personal letters are quite rare. Moreover, their contents are mostly unrecorded in literature, making them highly valuable from an archival perspective. The works are often written spontaneously, with a natural charm and elegance, exuding artistic interest and are well worth careful appreciation.