Characteristics of Yan Zhenqing's Calligraphy

Yan Zhenqing's calligraphy is characterized by square structure, light strokes, vigorous brushwork, straightness, openness and vigor. Yan Zhenqing's calligraphy style is called "Yan Ti", and it is also called "Yan Liu" with Liu Gongquan, and has the reputation of "Yan Liu Jin Gu".

Yan Zhenqing, a native of Jingzhao in Tang Dynasty, was a famous official and calligrapher. Yan Zhenqing lost his father at the age of three and was educated by his mother. When he grew up, he was knowledgeable, good at writing articles and very filial to his mother. In 734 AD, Yan Zhenqing became a scholar and served as a supervisor in the temple. Later, because he offended Yang, the powerful minister, he was demoted to be the prefect of the plain and was called "Yan Plain" by the world.

During the Anshi Rebellion, Yan Zhenqing led a crusade against the rebels. Later, he went to Fengxiang and was made a minister. Official to official ministers, Prince Taishi, named Lu Wei, known as "Gong" in history. In 784, Li Xilie rebelled and captured Ruzhou. Yan Zhenqing was sent to convey the imperial will, but was arrested by Li Xilie and eventually killed.

Yan Zhenqing's calligraphy is exquisite and good at it. Chu Suiliang, a beginner, studied under Zhang Xu and got his brushwork. Its regular script is dignified and majestic, and its running script is vigorous and powerful, which has created a "Yan style" regular script and has a great influence on later generations. Together with Zhao Mengfu, Liu Gongquan and Ou Yangxun, they are also called "four masters of regular script". He is also good at poetry, such as You, Ji, Wu, Ji, Lu Ji and Linchuan Ji, all of which have been lost. The Song people compiled Yan Ji.