Chu Suiliang--Complete Collection of Chinese Calligraphers

Author: Yi Zhuang
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Chu Suiliang (596-658), styled Dengshan, was a native of Qiantang (now Hangzhou, Zhejiang). During the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, he was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Henan and is hence known as "Chu Henan." Historical records describe him as knowledgeable in literature and history, particularly skilled in calligraphy. Emperor Taizong once said, "After Yu Shinnan passed away, no one else could discuss calligraphy with me." Wei Zheng then recommended Chu Suiliang, saying, "Suiliang's brushwork is forceful and well-executed, truly embodying the style of Wang Yishao." During Emperor Taizong's reign, he served as the Director of the Chancellery and Counselor-in-Wisdom, eventually rising to the position of Grand Secretary. Later, due to his opposition to Emperor Gaozong's decision to appoint Wu Zetian as empress, he was repeatedly demoted and ultimately died. In calligraphy, he initially studied under Ou Yangxun and later under Yu Shinnan, eventually drawing inspiration from Wang Xizhi, integrating the aesthetics of Han dynasty clerical script. His calligraphic style is characterized by:
- Regular script that is rich and elegant, forming a unique style of its own.
- Running and cursive script that is graceful and varied, with endless transformations.
During his time, he was renowned alongside Ou Yangxun and Yu Shinnan, attracting numerous scholars. Yan Zhenqing was also influenced by his work. The Tang Dynasty Calligraphy Critiques praises Chu's calligraphy as "golden in the characters, jade-like in the lines, with a refined and elegant style, and multifaceted beauty." His surviving steles include the Preface to the Three Buddhist Scriptures of Tongzhou, the Record of the Buddha's Niches in Yiqu, and the Stele for Master Meng, among others.