Chinese calligraphy : an introduction to its aesthetic and technique

by Yee Chiang, 1903-1977

Hardcover, 1973

Status

Available

Call number

NK3634.A2 C465 1973

Publication

Cambridge, Mass : Harvard University Press, 1973.

Description

Chiang Yee's Chinese Calligraphy: An Introduction to Its Aesthetic and Technique remains the classic introduction to Chinese calligraphy. In eleven richly illustrated chapters, Chiang explores the aesthetics and the technique of this art in which rhythm, line, and structure are perfectly embodied. He measures the slow change from pictograph to stroke to the style and shape of written characters by the great calligraphers. In addition to aesthetic considerations, the text deals with more practical subjects such as the origin and construction of the Chinese characters, styles, technique, strokes, composition, training, and the relations between calligraphy and other forms of Chinese art. Chinese Calligraphy is a superb appreciation of beauty in the movement of strokes and in the patterns of structure--and an inspiration to amateurs as well as professionals interested in the decorative arts.… (more)

User reviews

LibraryThing member Shujia
a "splendid book in which the plates alone would make a valuable acquisition" and "Mr. Chiang is the confident master, writing in a manner that is both businesslike and imaginative" - The London "Times".

Language

Physical description

xx, 250 p.; 24 cm

ISBN

0674122259 / 9780674122253

Copy notes

Half title in Chinese.
Third edition revised and enlarged. Second printing.
Contents: Introduction -- The origin and construction of Chinese characters -- The styles -- The abstract beauty of Chinese calligraphy -- Technique -- The strokes -- Composition -- Training -- Calligraphy and painting -- Aesthetic principles -- The relations between calligraphy and other forms of Chinese art.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 240-241) and index.
Dust jacket missing. Beige cloth-covered boards, red text on spine. Cloth torn at head of both outer hinges.
Name of one former owner, inscription of a different? former owner, and pencilled bookseller marks on front free endpaper.
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