Chan Sayings

CHINA; Northern Song dynasty

This work of calligraphy is a correspondence from Huang Tingjian to Li Rendao. It also compiles notes from Sayings of Chan Master Wenyi. Wenyi became a monk at the age of seven and studied under Luohan Guichen. He later founded the Fayan school of Buddhism. In this text, Wenyi repeatedly questioned his audience and emphasized the need to let go of all attachments in order to see one’s true nature. Huang appreciated the teachings and decidedly shared them with his friend by offering a written copy.
The cursive script began as clerical and subsequently developed into various modern and unrestrained styles. It advanced in the hands of Zhang Zhi, the two Wangs (Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi), Zhang Xu, and the monk Huaisu. The works of these eminent artists raised the standard of the script such that it was deemed unsurpassable by later generations. Huang’s personal interpretation of cursive script featured a stunning display of the triple-twist wave stroke, which embodies a rich texture of fine, expressive lines. Sharp angular turns and horizontal strokes were executed with fluidity and undeterred mobility, while flowing lines were articulated with steady and seasoned brushwork. This scroll is considered an excellent portrayal of Huang’s cursive script.
Huang Tingjian was a Northern Song dynasty (960–1127) poet and calligrapher. He was also known by the names of Luzhi and Shangu Daoren. As a devout Buddhist, Huang liked to approach his calligraphy through a Chan sensibility. His running, cursive, and regular scripts are considered significant.