I've always been interested in graphology, or the science of discerning character through handwriting.It's fascinating to see how it applies to Chinese calligraphy, especially that which has been consciously developed as an art form.
Unit 4 sent me to my Chinese bookshelf where I found Behind the Brushstrokes:Tales from Chinese Calligraphy. It was published by Graham Brash Pte Ltd 1993 in Singapore, where I bought it.
Among the 'famous calligraphers' mentioned in the text, along with examples of their work, is Empress Wu, the first 'Dragon Lady' mentioned in the course.
According to the book, Empress Wu Zetian 'could be hot-tempered and unforgiving and is reputed to have led an extravagant and lascivious lifestyle.'
The illustration below shows her 'Flying White Style', which incorporates images of birds and flowers into the characters.
Talk about the iron hand in the velvet glove! Character will out, it seems, when it comes to Calligraphy.
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