Chinese calligraphy : an introduction to its aesthetic and technique : with 6 plates and 155 text illustratons

ABSTRACT BEAUTY

* $8 BA A

By Print Chiian-Shu Li-Shu Li Jui-Ching K‘ai-Shu After After : after Yen Chéng- Liu Kung- Cho Ou-Yang Ching Chiian Chih-Ch‘ien Hsiin Chun, spring FIG. 69

Each of these examples, with the exception of the printed type, has its own pattern distinguished by sharply individualized shape of stroke and the arrangement of the strokes in the character. Strict regularity is not required; the writer has only to consult his taste and establish a general balance. The essential thing is that the pattern should have a living movement.

It is not difficult to differentiate the qualities of printed characters from those of good handwriting. In a printed character the strokes are of fixed length, thickness, position, and so on ; printing does not allow of variation in these respects. As for the style—any one can copy that, for it is bound to be common and entirely lacking in individuality. We call such strokes ‘dead’. And the arrangement of them in the character is ‘ dead’ too, for it is done simply to fill up the square symmetrically. The result is neat, clear, and legible, but quite without aesthetic significance.

[115 ]