Jinshi Wu Changshuo: “The spirit, not the form, is depicted in the iron painting”
Prologue: From Enlightenment to the Symphony of Life
Wu Changshuo (吳昌碩), also known as Bo Han and Liang Xi, later known as Shi Tian, was an outstanding calligrapher, seal engraver, and writer during the late Qing Dynasty and the Republican period in China. His artistic achievements spanned the fields of calligraphy, painting, and seal engraving, making him an important figure in the history of modern Chinese art with his unique style and profound artistic foundation. Wu Changshuo’s life was a convergence of traditional Chinese culture and modern transformation, showcasing his talent in the context of national vicissitudes.
Wu Changshuo was born in 1844, during a turbulent era, and his life went through many twists and turns. He lost his father at an early age and came from a poor family, but this did not hinder his interest in literature and art. His path in art was a legendary story of self-study and self-improvement. Wu Changshuo was deeply influenced by traditional culture and also embraced innovation, absorbing the essence of Western art. As a result, his works possessed a profound Chinese traditional foundation while also reflecting the spirit of the times.
Innovation: Depicting the spirit rather than the form in iron painting
Wu Changshuo integrated calligraphy, seal engraving, and painting, deeply rooted in the rich soil of Chinese art, and injected it with original vitality. In calligraphy, his cursive script flowed like running water, exhibiting both vigorous strength and delicate lines, achieving a unique and refined aesthetic. In seal engraving, his knife work was bold and precise, each stroke a personalized creation, making each seal a masterpiece filled with strong individuality and a sense of the times.
Wu Changshuo’s flower-and-bird paintings were renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and distinctive personality. His works featured vibrant colors, vivid compositions, and delicate yet powerful brushwork, vividly capturing the spirituality and vitality of flowers and birds. They demonstrated his transcendence and innovation in traditional painting techniques. These artistic practices not only enriched the treasure trove of Chinese art but also left behind invaluable cultural heritage for future generations, embodying an extraordinary and refined artistic spirit.
Wu Changshuo’s painting art adhered to the principle of “depicting the spirit rather than the form in iron painting, not resembling yet resembling forms” (苦鐵畫氣不畫形，不似之似聊象形). By skillfully incorporating seal inscriptions into his paintings, his works exuded elegance and classical charm, radiating dynamic and captivating artistic effects. His freehand flower-and-bird paintings boldly innovated, integrating poetry, calligraphy, and seal engraving into one, creating images that were both simple and substantial, showcasing a sense of grandeur and brilliance. This powerful and unadorned vitality completely subverted the gentle and delicate style of late Qing Dynasty paintings, bringing unprecedented freshness and profound influence to the modern Chinese painting scene.
Wu Changshuo’s artistic exploration served as an unremitting pursuit of beauty and contemplation of the meaning of life. It was also a steadfast commitment to innovation amidst the winds of change. Whether in calligraphy, seal engraving, or painting, his works exuded the weighty “spirit of gold and stone” (金石之氣).
Integration: Building a cultural bridge between China and Japan
Wu Changshuo’s works had a profound impact in Japan. In the early 20th century, he visited Japan and exhibited his calligraphy and paintings. His unique artistic style received high praise in the Japanese art community, particularly his innovations and techniques in calligraphy and flower-and-bird painting, which were regarded as important bridges for cultural exchange between China and Japan. Some of Wu Changshuo’s painting techniques and concepts were incorporated into Japan’s art education system, becoming important references for learning and teaching. In Japan, Wu Changshuo’s art not only gained recognition among artists but also had a broad influence on art education and practice, serving as a significant link between the two countries’ cultural exchange.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda mentioned Wu Changshuo’s influence during the opening ceremony of the “40th Anniversary of the Signing of the Sino-Japanese Peace and Friendship Treaty Calligraphy Exhibition” held at the Wu Changshuo Memorial Hall in Shanghai. He said, “In Japan, Mr. Wu Changshuo’s seal script is considered to have reached its peak. I wonder how Chinese people view this? Personally, I also love seal engraving. Every time I stamp a seal, Wu Changshuo’s name comes to mind, and only then do I press the seal”.
Resonance: Market recognition and cultural dialogue
Wu Changshuo and Li Zhaodong, two master artists, demonstrated profound understanding and innovation in traditional culture in different historical periods. Wu Changshuo’s calligraphy, seal engraving, and painting not only carried a rich classical charm but also integrated modern ideas, showcasing a perfect fusion of tradition and innovation. Wu Changshuo’s works have been highly sought after in the art market, with his calligraphy, seal engravings, and paintings fetching high prices at auctions. His artistic achievements have not only won recognition from scholars and experts but also resonated with art lovers and collectors, reflecting the enduring appeal and cultural significance of his works.
Wu Changshuo’s artistic exploration serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, East and West, and China and Japan. His innovative techniques and profound artistic spirit continue to inspire and influence contemporary artists. By depicting the spirit rather than the form in iron painting, Wu Changshuo left behind a rich artistic legacy that speaks to the essence of Chinese culture and the universal language of art.
