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Xiaozhuan (small seal):
Evolving from Dazhuan (Big Seal) of the Qin Fiefdom, Xiaozhuan was
simplified and standardized to become more even in size and smooth in
line. Emperor Qin decreed this style of script be used nationwide after
his unification of China (221 B.C.). |
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Xiaozhuan (small seal):
Evolving from Dazhuan (Big Seal) of the Qin Fiefdom, Xiaozhuan was
simplified and standardized to become more even in size and smooth in
line. Emperor Qin decreed this style of script be used nationwide after
his unification of China (221 B.C.). |
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Caoshu(Cursive Script):
Literally meaning "grass", this script is uniquely simple and free in
style. There are three kinds of Caoshu: Zhangcao (Draft Cursive), created
in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.- 220 A.D.) as a simplification of Lishu; and
Jincao (Modern Cursive) and Kuangcao (Wild Cursive), both evolving from
kaishu, and created respectively in the Wei and Jin periods (220-420 A.D.)
and the Tang Dynasty(618-907 A.D.). |
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Xingshu
(Semi-curisive): Nicknamed "Running Script," this style of calligraphy
marks the transition between Kaishu and Caoshu in terms of its ability to
be written quickly. It originated in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220
A.D.), and became mature in the Wei and Jin periods and the Southern and
Northern Dynasties (220 - 589). |
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Kaishu (standard
script): A further evolution from Lishu, Jaishu is distinguishable by its
straight lines and square shape. This style of writing has been widely
used since the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.), and continues to be
popular today. |
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Kaishu (standard
script): A further evolution from Lishu, Jaishu is distinguishable by its
straight lines and square shape. This style of writing has been widely
used since the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.), and continues to be
popular today.
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Lishu (Clerical
Script): An easier style of writing evolving from Xiaozhuan, Lishu is
characterized by its flatness and the replacement of rounded edges with
angled ones. It was initiated in the Qin Dynasty (221 - 206 B.C.) and
widespred in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.)
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Lishu (Clerical
Script): An easier style of writing evolving from Xiaozhuan, Lishu is
characterized by its flatness and the replacement of rounded edges with
angled ones. It was initiated in the Qin Dynasty (221 - 206 B.C.) and
widespred in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.)
|
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Lishu (Clerical
Script): An easier style of writing evolving from Xiaozhuan, Lishu is
characterized by its flatness and the replacement of rounded edges with
angled ones. It was initiated in the Qin Dynasty (221 - 206 B.C.) and
widespred in the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.)
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