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Calligraphy practice book

Calligrapher Wen C. Fong
1930s–40s
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 216
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
Learning to write Chinese calligraphy requires persistence and dedication. In early training, which can last years if not decades, the core discipline is to copy famous texts—like the examples Li Jian provided in the surrounding fans—over and over, until they are internalized in mind, eye, and hand. This book, preserved from Fong’s early practice, testifies to the young calligrapher’s diligence.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Calligraphy practice book
  • Calligrapher: Wen C. Fong (1930–2018)
  • Period: Republic period (1912–49)
  • Date: 1930s–40s
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Album; ink on paper
  • Dimensions: Overall with mounting (Book a; closed): 16 3/4 × 12 1/4 in. (42.5 × 31.1 cm)
    Overall with mounting (Book a; open): 16 3/4 × 21 3/4 in. (42.5 × 55.2 cm)
    Overall with mounting (Book b; closed): 17 7/8 × 13 1/2 in. (45.4 × 34.3 cm)
    Overall with mounting (Book b; open): 17 7/8 × 23 5/8 in. (45.4 × 60 cm)
  • Classification: Books
  • Credit Line: Lent by Constance and Wen Fong Collection
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art