Title

Calligraphy for Social Obligations and the Social Network of Wang Duo: Writing for Local Officials of Henan and Powerful Han Officials in the Early Qing Government

Author

Xue, Long-chun

Genre

Article  

Pages

513-541   

Download

PDF

Language

Chinese

Key words

late Ming and early Qing, Wang Duo, social obligations, calligraphy recipients, social networks   

Abstract

    In addition to creating calligraphic works for sale, Wang Duo often used them as gifts to fulfill certain social obligations. The main recipients were his colleagues at work, local officials, and fellow artists. Among them, two groups were especially significant. First, Wang gave calligraphic works to

local officials, which allowed him to maintain friendly relations with important families and enjoy certain privileges. Second, Wang also gave his valuable works to powerful Han officials in the Qing court in hopes of establishing a social network in the new dynasty. This clearly conflicts with the account of other former Ming officials in the Qing government, who described Wang as reluctant to serve the Manchus and as leading a decadent life. Here, Wang Duo's actual social attempts are revealed by the whereabouts of his calligraphic works.