beautifully inscribed Chinese characters. Organized into sections, this book presents Chinese characters that embrace a diversity of themes, including peace, happiness, love, long life, and many others. Each of 300 characters is presented with an explanation of its meaning and a note on how it is pronounced. Clear, step-by-step directions show beginning students exactly how to render the series of strokes which, when combined, create each elegant Chinese character. The author lists all necessary tools and materials, which include different kinds of paper, brushes and brush stands, paperweights, ink sticks, and ink stones. A chapter titled "Gallery of Chinese Calligraphy" presents many examples of traditional and contemporary Chinese calligraphic art from a variety of renowned artists. A glossary defines all items and terms that are cited in the book.

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