Written Chinese developed from pictures drawn to record events. Generally speaking, over the last five thousand years writing styles have moved from complexity to greater simplicity, pacing changes in society. During this time calligraphy has been continually recreating itself, however, sprouting countless new permutations, becoming the singular and endlessly satisfying art that it is today.
The author of this book has devoted a lifetime to the study of Chinese culture, accumulating a profound and detailed understanding. In this work he provides a thoroughgoing and concisely systematic introduction to Chinese calligraphy, organizing his presentation around twelve approaches to the art, including history, aesthetics and the techniques used to hone the calligrapher's skills. Illustrated with scores of famous calligraphic works, this book provides an eminently functional guide to the appreciation of Chinese calligraphy. Illustrated.
