Zhang Bi (calligrapher)
Zhang Bi was a Ming dynasty Chinese calligrapher and poet noted for his cursive script.
Biography
Zhang Bi was born in Huating County in Songjiang Prefecture. The region faced numerous issues, which the new prefect addressed by first suppressing banditry and then implementing measures to improve the local economy, such as constructing roads and bridges. Upon discovering the prevalence of unorthodox cults in the area, he ordered the demolition of over a hundred of their temples. In their place, he built Confucian schools and shrines dedicated to revered Confucian figures from the past. In 1484, he resigned due to poor health.He was a prolific prose writer, poet, and respected calligrapher. According to his friend Li Dongyang, Zhang valued his poetry above his calligraphy and his prose above his poetry. Others primarily admired him for his calligraphy, particularly his "wild cursive script" in the style of Tang calligrapher Huaisu. His contemporaries saw the strong, energetic strokes of his handwriting as a reflection of his direct, independent, and morally steadfast character.
Two of his sons also achieved success in official service. Zhang Hongyi rose to the position of deputy director of the provincial surveillance office in Guangxi and was also highly regarded for his calligraphy. Zhang Hongzhi served as the head of the supervisory office for one of the ministries.