In the year 992, Zhao Jiong, an emperor of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), ordered the compendiums of fine calligraphy from various dynasties in the royal collection. The featured pieces were engraved on stones as model calligraphy. This collection, called Chunhua Ge Tie, is known today as one of the most significant achievements in Chinese calligraphy.

The compiling of Chunhua Ge Tie prompted the popularity of ke tie (engraved model calligraphy) at the time. The widespread practice of engraving model writing pieces on stones, or sometimes wooden blocks, allowed more people to study and make their own rubbings.

The making of ke tie popularized calligraphy practice, bringing changes to the ways people worked with the character strokes. It formed a unique beauty that still catches the eyes of modern calligraphers.

An exhibition at the China National Academy of Painting sheds light on the recent developments in studying ancient ke tie pieces, displaying more than 360 works by calligraphers at prestigious museums and societies of calligraphy and seal engraving around the country.

The exhibition is the fifth installment of a series focusing on the tradition of studying ancient characters engraved on various mediums — stones, oracle bones and bronzes, for example — and calligraphy practices, to preserve its lineage.

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