On Wei Dan, Zhong Hui, Xun Xu, and Yang Chen in “On Skill and Artistry” of A New Account of the Tales of the World

Abstract

Wei Dan, Zhong Hui, Xun Xu, and Yang Chen were all famous scholars of the Wei and Jin period, and at the same time great masters of calligraphy and painting. On Skill and Artistry in A New Account of the Tales of the World portrays the images of these four figures from the perspective of art, with concise language and profound meaning. Based on a thorough textual analysis of the original passages, this paper attempts to comprehensively explore the artistic and ideological issues involved, pointing out that: Wei Dan placed more importance on his identity as a minister and expressed indignation over his failure to dissuade Emperor Ming of Wei from constructing grand palaces; Zhong Hui harbored improper intentions since childhood, and Xun Xu used his superb painting skills—perfectly aligned with the Six Laws—to admonish Zhong Hui; the Yang clan of Mount Tai was a typical calligraphy family, among whom Yang Chen and Yang Xin were truly outstanding.