The four major calligraphers of the Song Dynasty are: Su Shi, Huang Tingjian, Mi Fu and Cai Xiang.
In the history of calligraphy, when it comes to calligraphy in the Song Dynasty, there are four major calligraphers: Su, Huang, Mi and Cai. The four of them are considered to be typical representatives of the calligraphy style of the Song Dynasty. Among the "Four Calligraphers of the Song Dynasty", the first three refer to Su Shi (Dongpo), Huang Tingjian (Fu Weng) and Mi Fu (Xiangyang Manshi). From the perspective of calligraphy style, Su Shi is plump and innocent, Huang Tingjian is vertical and horizontal, high and hidden, Mi Fu is handsome and bold, calm and happy.
They were all good at learning from the ancients and full of innovative spirit. Their calligraphy style was unique and highly praised by people at that time. They were listed among the four schools without any objection. It is generally believed that the so-called Cai refers to Cai Xiang (Jun Mo). His calligraphy is based on the Jin and Tang Dynasties, and pays attention to ancient meanings and laws. However, some people think it is Cai Jing. Who exactly he refers to has always been controversial.
Calligraphy style
These four people can roughly represent the calligraphy style of the Song Dynasty, and they have the highest achievements, so they are called the "Four Schools of Song Dynasty". The art of calligraphy has changed with the development of the times. The Han people valued Qi, the Wei and Jin Dynasties valued rhyme, the Northern and Southern Dynasties pursued brilliance, and the Sui and Tang Dynasties advocated law. In the Song Dynasty, literati began to explore the "meaning" of calligraphy, the beauty of artistic conception, transcending the world, and the aesthetic taste of appreciation developed to a deeper level.
During this period, Cai Jing also achieved profound attainments in calligraphy. However, later generations disliked Cai Jing because of his bad character, so Cai Xiang replaced Cai Jing as one of the "Four Masters of Song Dynasty". One statement. As the saying goes, "There is no first in literature, no second in military affairs." Although Su Dongpo's attainments in calligraphy reached the pinnacle and became his own school, whether he could be ranked first in the Song Dynasty remains to be discussed.