Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art

About this Work

A high-level government official of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Liu Yong is celebrated for his calligraphy in running script, which emphasizes speed and fluidity. His short, bold strokes make each character appear inky yet forceful. The text is a partial transcription of the respected calligraphic work “Memorial on the Announcement of Victory (Hejie bie 賀捷表),” commonly attributed to the early calligraphy master Zhong You (151–230 CE). In the eighteenth century, calligraphers often used their personal styles to creatively “copy” earlier works. This practice is similar to the reinterpretation of classical music compositions by modern performers. The finished “copy” maintains the original textual content but transforms the calligraphic style. This beautifully decorated hanging scroll was presented by Liu Yong to his colleague Wen Runeng (1748–1811), a noted academician at the Qing court. The exchange of calligraphic works was a common way for people to commemorate and develop social relations at the time.