Wang, Xizhi

Wang Xizhi (c. 303-361, age 58) was a renowned Chinese calligrapher from the Eastern Jin Dynasty, revered as the “Saint of Calligraphy” by later generations. Born in Linyi, Shandong Province, he spent most of his life in present-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang.

Wang learned calligraphy from the master Wei Shuo and excelled in various scripts, particularly the semi-cursive style. His most celebrated work is the “Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion” (Lantingji xu), composed in 353 at the Orchid Pavilion Gathering.

Wang was renowned for his proficiency in multiple script styles, including regular, semi-cursive, and cursive forms.

SEE: “Sage of Calligraphy” from Shandong Province (June 20, 2010)