Capital Residence

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Period: Northern Song dynasty (960–1127)
Medium: ink on paper
Format: album leaf

Calligrapher(s): Cai Xiang (1012–1067)

Dimensions: 27.2 cm × 32 cm

This exemplary work in running-cursive script (xingcao) calligraphy is a letter of greeting from Cai Xiang (1012–1067) to a friend. The brushwork is elegant with clear strokes and a generous use of ink. The composition of the characters is meticulous yet possessing a beautiful fluidity.

From Xianyou in Fujian, Cai Xiang (1012–1067) is known by his courtesy name (zi) Junmo. As an official, he attained the position of an academician of the Hall of Dignified Brilliance (Duanming dian) and was known posthumously as Zhonghui. Su Shi (1037–1101) highly esteemed the man’s personal character and calligraphic art, which he praised as unique and first among the artists of the realm.

Translated and edited by Adam J. Ensign and Kang Xiaolu