Yan Zhenqing Selected Regular Script Calligraphy Manuscript of the Treasure Pagoda

Author: Hongyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: Yan Zhenqing (709-785), styled Qingchen, was a native of Jingzhao Wannian (now Xi'an, Shaanxi). He was a renowned calligrapher of the Tang Dynasty in China. Yan Zhenqing initially studied under Chu Suiliang and later learned brush techniques from Zhang Xu. His regular script is dignified and majestic, with an expansive and powerful style. His running script is vigorous and dynamic, natural and spontaneous. The Yan style combines square and round brushwork, incorporating elements of seal script, with clear pressure and release, strong and upright. He abandoned the clerical script style and adopted the brushwork of seal and cursive scripts, bridging the past and the future, transforming traditional calligraphic methods. The structure of Yan's characters is well-balanced, spacious and expansive, simple yet dignified, elegant and refined. He pioneered a new trend in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, exerting a profound influence on later generations, which has remained popular for thousands of years. Many famous calligraphers after Yan Zhenqing drew inspiration from his style. He has been favored by calligraphers throughout history and has become a must-learn model for scholars. His extant regular script steles include the Dabao Ta Bei (Great Treasure Pagoda Stele), Yan Jia Miao Bei (Yan Family Temple Stele), Li Zhijing Bei (Li Zhijing Stele), Magonxian Tan Ji (Magonxian Immortal Platform Record), and Yan Qinli Bei (Yan Qinli Stele). His extant running script carvings include the Zhengzuowei Tie (Dispute Seat Letter). His extant ink manuscripts include the Zishu Gaoshen (Self-Composed Announcement) and Jizigao Gao (Draft of Eulogy for His Nephew). These abundant Yan-style calligraphic materials have provided convenience for later generations in learning Yan's script and researching Chinese calligraphy. Based on years of experience in compiling calligraphic books and collecting feedback from, we have specially compiled the Selected Yan Zhenqing Calligraphy series. This book progresses from easy to advanced, selecting exemplary characters from Yan Zhenqing's Qinli Bei and Dabao Ta Bei to create an indispensable model for calligraphy enthusiasts and students of all ages to learn calligraphy and practice stele styles.