References

• 《四庫全書總目提要·卷112 子部·藝術類一》

Source: ''Shu Duan (《書斷》)'' 'Shu Duan' (《書斷》), a three-volume work, was authored by Zhang Huai-guan during the Tang Dynasty. The 'Tang Shu' (《唐書》) 'Yiwen Zhi' (《藝文志》) records that Zhang Huai-guan served as a Hanlin Gongfeng (翰林供奉) during the Kaiyuan period. However, according to the notes in Shu Shu Fu (《述書賦》) by Dou Meng, Zhang Huai-guan was from Hai Ling and held the position of Prefect of Ezhou. The 'Shu Shu Fu' also mentions that Zhang Huai-huan, the brother of Zhang Huai-guan, was the Prefect of Sheng Wang Fu and both brothers served as Hanlin Daizhao (翰林待詔). This aligns with the 'Tang Shu' record, suggesting that Zhang Huai-guan held both positions at different times. 'Shu Duan' compiles information on various calligraphic styles and notable calligraphers throughout history. The first volume lists ten calligraphic styles: ancient script, large seal script, zhòu script, small seal script, eight-script, clerical script, cursive script, running script, flying white, and grass script. Each style is described with its origin and development, followed by a commendatory essay. The volume concludes with a general discussion. The second and third volumes categorize calligraphers into three ranks: divine (神), marvelous (妙), and competent (能). The divine rank includes twenty-five calligraphers, twelve of whom are listed across different styles. The marvelous rank includes ninety-eight calligraphers, thirty-nine of whom are listed across different styles. Lastly, the competent rank includes one hundred and seven calligraphers, thirty-five of whom are listed across different styles. Each calligrapher's name is listed, followed by a brief biography. Additionally, the biographies include thirty-eight more calligraphers. The work is known for its detailed records and fair evaluations. 'Shu Duan' was highly regarded in its time, and its entire text is included in 'Fashu Yaolu' (《法書要錄》) by Zhang Yan-yuan, indicating its significance as a precise and authoritative reference on calligraphy. ==References== * 《四庫全書總目提要·卷112 子部·藝術類一》