Chu Style Identification, Different Dictionary

Author: Shen Daorong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-06
Features: As one of the Four Great Calligraphers of the Early Tang Dynasty, Chu Suiliang's calligraphic style is represented by works created during the Zhenguan and Yongzhen years, such as the Yiquan Buddhist niche, Meng Fashi Stele, Fang Xuanying Stele, and Yanta Holy Teaching Order. Among these, the Yanta Holy Teaching Order is particularly renowned and has been highly regarded by calligraphers throughout the ages. Wang Xuzhou of the Qing Dynasty commented: [Chu Gong's calligraphy appears sparse and thin, yet it is actually rich and lustrous; it seems ancient and plain, yet it is actually elegant and refined.] In his later years, Suiliang's regular script often showed the influence of the Two Wangs (Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi), with brushwork that further refined the elegance and thin strength built upon the foundations of Ouyang Xun, Yu Shinan, and the middle generation. This style, which combines richness, luster, elegance, and refinement, with both firmness and suppleness, exemplifies the early Tang Dynasty's calligraphy beginning to break free from the influence of the Sui Dynasty's style and establishing its own distinct tradition. It also marks the era when the regular script of the Tang Dynasty reached maturity. Therefore, Chu Suiliang's calligraphy has been revered by later generations as [Chu Style] and [Great Teacher of Universal Enlightenment].