INI
Calligraphy Scripts - INI
Calligraphy scripts are writing styles that developed for Chinese characters, with five major styles forming the foundation: Seal Script (Tensho), Clerical Script (Reisho), Regular Script (Kaisho), Running Script (Gyosho), and Cursive Script (Sosho). Beginning with the unification of writing by Qin Shi Huang in 221 BCE, these scripts evolved over time pursuing efficiency and beauty. Each style has distinct characteristics and uses, and they continue to be learned as the foundation of calligraphy and passed down as means of artistic expression in modern times.
calligraphy
scripts
five styles
kanji
traditional culture
art
[item.tensho]
code=1
slug=tensho
name=Seal Script
description=The oldest style of Chinese characters, characterized by geometric and symmetrical structures.
characteristics=["geometric structure","symmetrical","rounded lines","vertical form"]
period=Qin Dynasty (221 BCE~)
[item.reisho]
code=2
slug=reisho
name=Clerical Script
description=A script developed during the Han Dynasty, characterized by flat forms and distinctive wave-like strokes.
characteristics=["flat form","horizontal elongation","wave-like strokes","practical"]
period=Han Dynasty (202 BCE~)
[item.kaisho]
code=3
slug=kaisho
name=Regular Script
description=The modern standard script characterized by neat, highly legible forms.
characteristics=["neat forms","clear strokes","highly legible","standard script"]
period=Northern/Southern Dynasties to Sui/Tang Periods
[item.gyosho]
code=4
slug=gyosho
name=Running Script
description=An intermediate style between Regular and Cursive scripts, combining flowing strokes with readability.
characteristics=["intermediate style","flowing strokes","readable","practical"]
period=Later Han Dynasty~
[item.sosho]
code=5
slug=sosho
name=Cursive Script
description=The most simplified script, characterized by connected strokes and flowing lines.
characteristics=["maximum simplification","connected strokes","flowing lines","artistic"]
period=Later Han Dynasty~