Artwork

On Happiness, Calligraphy in Seal Script Style (zhuanshu)

On Happiness, Calligraphy in Seal Script Style (zhuanshu), by Unknown, unspecified, 1871
On Happiness, Calligraphy in Seal Script Style (zhuanshu), by Unknown, unspecified, 1871

On Happiness, Calligraphy in Seal Script Style (zhuanshu) is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 1871 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This artwork is a calligraphic scroll featuring a lengthy text in seal script style.

About this work

Overview

This artwork is a calligraphic scroll featuring a lengthy text in seal script style. Executed in black ink on light paper, it is divided into small squares by a grid.

Technique & Style

The calligraphy is characterized by bold, angular strokes that vary in thickness. The characters are neatly arranged in three columns within the grid, which is marked by red lines. The ink appears fresh in some areas, suggesting a recent or deliberately evocative execution.

Subject & Meaning

The title 'On Happiness' indicates that the text explores the concept of happiness, although the specific content is not immediately clear from the visual elements alone.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.