Appreciation of Fine Calligraphy Works by Contemporary Famous Calligraphers -- Calligraphy Works of Yao Xiaoyao

Author: Jia Dejiang, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-05-01
Features: Qing Dynasty scholar Wang Shu wrote in Annotations on the Empty Studio: "The art of clerical script reaches its peak in Han inscriptions, with each stele presenting a unique charm, none being identical." Indeed, the Yi Ying Stele exhibits balanced strength and fluidity, with rigorous calligraphy; the Shi Chen Stele features precise strokes and elegant composition, demonstrating strict adherence to rules; the Cao Quan Stele is rich and refined, yet contains inner strength, with varying structures and natural proportions; the Li Qi Stele is slender and powerful like iron, changing gracefully like a dragon, each character presenting a unique charm that cannot be easily overlooked; the Kong Hou Stele is unrestrained and dynamic, with a sublime and overflowing spirit; the Zhang Qian Stele is robust and vigorous, with ingenuity hidden in simplicity, square yet round in stroke usage, and subtle wave endings; the Heng Fang Stele is ancient, strong, and rich, with a deep and powerful calligraphy that is dominant yet restrained, and a spacious and grand composition; the Xian Yu Huang Stele is dignified in posture, with a heavy and profound calligraphy, revealing new interests in composition.
Contemporary calligrapher Yao Xiao Yao has been deeply attracted to the charm of Han inscriptions since his youth. His extensive practice of copying them has allowed him to appreciate their style, becoming thoroughly familiar with their large and small layouts, structural principles, and variations in stroke usage. He particularly loves the balanced square and round techniques of the Shi Men Sòng Stele, where the calligraphy contains inner strength yet reveals a divine aura. This powerful yet restrained brushwork resonated perfectly with his inner aesthetic.