page_title: Chinese calligraphy
section_title: Gallery
hierarchical_section_title: Chinese calligraphy / Gallery
caption_attribution_description: Wang Xizhi was an official and a member of the nobility during the Jin dynasty (265–420). He was versed in poetry, music, and calligraphy. In this letter, he sends greetings to a friend after a snowfall. This work is done in running script. Nowadays, this work is generally considered to be a copy made during the Tang dynasty (618–907).
context_page_description: Chinese calligraphy is the writing of Chinese characters as an art form, combining purely visual art and interpretation of the literary meaning. This type of expression has been widely practiced in China and has been generally held in high esteem across East Asia. Calligraphy is considered as one of the four best friends of ancient Chinese literati, along with playing stringed musical instruments, the board game "Go", and painting. There are some general standardizations of the various styles of calligraphy in this tradition. Chinese calligraphy and ink and wash painting are closely related: they are accomplished using similar tools and techniques, and have a long history of shared artistry. Distinguishing features of Chinese painting and calligraphy include an emphasis on motion charged with dynamic life. According to Stanley-Baker, "Calligraphy is sheer life experienced through energy in motion that is registered as traces on silk or paper, with time and rhythm in shifting space its main ingredients." Calligraphy has also led to the development of many forms of art in China, including seal carving, ornate paperweights, and inkstones.
caption: The Calligraphy Model "Sunny after Snow" by Wang Xizhi
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