Ruler slip "Lidu Tie" 1055 paper 29.2cm X46.8cm Collection of the National Palace Museum, Taipei
Cai Xiang (1012-1067 AD), courtesy name Junmo, was a native of Xianyou, Fujian. He studied calligraphy from Yu Shinan and Yan Zhenqing, and also from Jin Dynasty. Together with Su Shi, Huang Tingjian and Mi Fu, he is one of the "Four Northern Song Dynasty Masters" and is well-known in the book garden.
This post, also known as "A Letter to Chief Du Jun", was written by Cai Xiang when he was about to cross the Yangtze River and "return to the south". He recalled that he left the capital (Kaifeng) and went to Nanjing (today's Shangqiu) and lost his eldest son. A friend wrote to express condolences, and Xiang wrote this book to express his gratitude. The richness and depth of the calligraphy resemble that of Yan Zhenqing, while also possessing the gracefulness of Wang Xizhi's calligraphy. Selected from the volume "Four Calligraphers of the Song Dynasty". Interpretation: Xiang Qi. From Lidu to Nanjing. The eldest son suffered from typhoid fever for seven days. So I can't bear this disease. It is an honor to return to the south. Unexpectedly, the disaster is like this. Breathtaking thoughts. There is no words to express sorrow. Instructions and letters. And Yongpingxin. It is useful to express sadness. Crossing the river day and night. Not as good as meeting you. Yi Yong's extreme. I would like to express my gratitude. Not one by one. Xiang paused. Commander Du Jun steps down. July 13th. May all your noble family members be well. The old man is fine. Yongping has been delivered. Chixin reported it.
