Calligraphy Introduction to the Thousand Characters: Su Zhiyong's Xi Style

Author: Jiang Yumin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: The only two existing copies of Zhi Yong's Thousand Characters are the engraved version (Guanzhong version) and the ink rubbing version. This book is compiled from the ink rubbing version. The calligraphy in this piece is exceptionally skillful, preserving many characteristics of the Six Dynasties period. The forms of the characters are not fixed; often, identical components and turns are written differently to achieve variation, contrasting sharply with the standardized and uniform style of the Sui and Tang dynasties and later. Tang Li Sizhen praised its exceptional refinement. Su Shi described it as having deep stability, embodying the essence of all calligraphy, and that mastery can lead to a sense of openness and simplicity. Mi Fu called it elegant, smooth, and powerful, with excellence in all directions, all giving it high praise. This book rearranges similar or identical calligraphic techniques and structures to summarize the principles of Zhi Yong's skill, making it easier for beginners to learn and observe, and allowing them to discover the joy of finding uniqueness within similarity.