TSV

Calligraphy Scripts - TSV

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

code	slug	name	description	characteristics	period
1	tensho	Seal Script	The oldest style of Chinese characters, characterized by geometric and symmetrical structures.	["geometric structure","symmetrical","rounded lines","vertical form"]	Qin Dynasty (221 BCE~)
2	reisho	Clerical Script	A script developed during the Han Dynasty, characterized by flat forms and distinctive wave-like strokes.	["flat form","horizontal elongation","wave-like strokes","practical"]	Han Dynasty (202 BCE~)
3	kaisho	Regular Script	The modern standard script characterized by neat, highly legible forms.	["neat forms","clear strokes","highly legible","standard script"]	Northern/Southern Dynasties to Sui/Tang Periods
4	gyosho	Running Script	An intermediate style between Regular and Cursive scripts, combining flowing strokes with readability.	["intermediate style","flowing strokes","readable","practical"]	Later Han Dynasty~
5	sosho	Cursive Script	The most simplified script, characterized by connected strokes and flowing lines.	["maximum simplification","connected strokes","flowing lines","artistic"]	Later Han Dynasty~