豹菴 姜世晃의 書藝論 一考

Abstract

This is a comparative study on each theory of calligraphy of the leading calligraphists in the 18th century such like Pyoam Se-hwang Gang(1713~ 1791)and this research is purposed to define each theory of calligraphy with their respective personality. Se-hwang Gang viewed that the square style is much closer to the semicursive style than cursive style. Also if anyone sticks to only the square style, his style could be stiffened with limited sight, while one who studies the semicursive style will gain extended sight through the flexibility and space perception given by the writing speed. So he believed if one does the square style in the way of the semicursive style, he would secure broad and firm strength in his calligraphy. Therefore Se-hwang Gang claimed that all the calligraphy methods are actually identical and it's unnecessary to divide between the semicursive style and the cursive style. He enjoyed his best days as he mainly worked on the semicursive style in his calligraphy, which is in between the cursive style and the semicursive style. The Pyoam style by Se-hwang Gang formed a strong and elegant style by adding Meng-Fu Zhao(趙孟頫) style of Ming dynasty and Fu Mi(米芾) style of Sung dynasty after studying the style of xi-zhi Wang(王羲之) and xian-zhi Wang(王獻之) as well. The calligraphy in the 18th century mostly features the styles Se-hwang Gang studied the collections of xi-zhi Wang and created his own Pyoam style(豹菴體) by adding the styles of Meng-Fu Zhao and Fu Mi. The theory of calligraphy by Se-hwang Gang stressed that a calligraphist must be prepared with clear mind to do calligraphy by understanding the purpose fully. So he said when one learns the old styles he must learn to the mysterious energy in it and must not stick to imitating the outward alone, but he should first understand the true meaning in it so that his work will not end up in a mere forgery. And this is his theory that says 'follow the old styles focused on the comprehension of the spirit and purpose in it'. Se-hwang Gang’s achievement of new calligraphy styles have brought out the glorious days for the calligraphy in the 18th century. They took xi-zhi Wangas the chief model for them to study on and accomplished the new calligraphy styles of their own by reviving the old styles with creativity and new spirit.