Prince Jin Xianzhi: An Anthology of Selected Running Cursive Calligraphy from Generation to Generation - Correspondence Collection

Author: Jiang Yin, edited by Mo Xiaobu
Publisher: Xiling Shuhua Press
Publication Date: 2006-01-01
Features: Wang Xianzhi (344–386), styled Zijing, also known as Guannu, was the seventh son of Wang Xizhi and a native of Langya Linyi. He served as the General of Jianwu, the Governor of Wuxing, and the Imperial Secretary, earning the title "Wang Dailing." A master calligrapher, he excelled in all styles, particularly in running script and cursive script. It is said that when Wang Xianzhi was young, Wang Xizhi once tried to snatch his brush from behind him but failed, and sighed, "This child will surely achieve great fame in the future." In Shuyi (On Calligraphy), Wang Xizhi praised Wang Xianzhi's running and cursive scripts, noting that he created a new style: "[It is neither grass script nor running script, flowing like grass script but expansive like running script, with grass script in between. It does not follow conventions and is not bound by rules; it stands out with elegance and simplicity. The spirit soars freely, transcending and wandering; it adapts to circumstances and follows the mind's convenience. It is like wind and rain scattering, blooming with color and grace. Among calligraphic techniques and forms, it is the most stylish and elegant." From surviving works such as the Daitouwan, Twenty-Ninth Day, Mid-Autumn, Sending Pears, and Difangtang, we can clearly see a calligraphic style distinct from Wang Xizhi's, reflecting a free and unrestrained demeanor and extraordinary talent.