Historic character of China's writing (4)

Standardizing the writing

During the Spring and Autumn period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States period, there were many states in China and each had their own form of writing. In 221 BC, the state of Qin united China and standardized writing by making its own writing - with small seal script the only one authorized.

Li Si, Prime Minister (or Chancellor) of Qin and a notable calligrapher, took charge of systemizing the written Chinese language by promulgating as the imperial standard the small seal script which had been in use in the state of Qin. In this process, variants within the Qin script were proscribed, as were variant scripts from the different regions which had been conquered.

The standardization of Chinese writing promoted the development of economy and culture and contributed to the birth of a multi-ethnic country.

Visitors to the exhibition can see the photos of bronze vessels used for measurement of cereal with edict of Emperor Qin Shihuang (259-210 BC) and the stele of Taishan Mountain, said to be written by Li Si.

There are also introductions of different written styles in different periods, like the clerical script, the regular script, which is used mostly for printing, and the semi-cursive script, used mostly for handwriting.

Research on Chinese character began in the Eastern Han Dynasty (AD 25-220). The "Erya" is the oldest surviving Chinese dictionary or Chinese encyclopedia known. The book's author is unknown, however. It was considered the authoritative lexicographic guide to Chinese classic texts during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – AD 220).

Chinese linguist Xu Shen of the Han Dynasty contributed etymological dictionary "Shuowen Jiezi." Although not the first comprehensive Chinese character dictionary (the "Erya" predates it), it was still the first to analyze the structure of the characters and to give the rationale behind them.

The final part of the exhibition is dedicated to some Chinese character art works. Stone tablets with clerical script, calligraphy works, seals and poems can be found here in photos.

Lin Shiqing, a retired teacher in his 60s, said he was fascinated by the profound culture and glamor of Chinese characters while touring the exhibition.

"We use Chinese characters every day, but we don't know the rich culture, profound history and fun stories behind it, which is a big regret," he said.

Date: Through November 18

Venue: Shanghai Public Art Center, 125 Guyi Rd