What are the five forms of calligraphy?

The five styles of calligraphy refer to the five basic fonts of ancient calligraphy in China, including:

1. official script: the official font formulated after Qin Shihuang unified the characters in the Han Dynasty, with neat strokes, rigorous structure and easy recognition.

2. Cursive calligraphy: the calligraphy style formed in the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, with rough and chic strokes, flowing clouds and flowing water, with a slight sense of randomness and fuzziness.

3. Running script: The script formed in the Tang Dynasty is in an intermediate state between regular script and cursive script, and there are changes between strokes, which are both athletic and stable.

4. Regular script: a formal font that has gradually developed and improved since the Han Dynasty. Its strokes are standardized, symmetrical and dignified, and it is known as "the best book in the world".

5. Official seal script: evolved from seal script, mainly used for engraving seals. The font has a distinct angle and solemn style, which embodies the carving characteristics of China traditional calligraphy art.

These five fonts not only have high artistic value of calligraphy, but also are an important part of China culture. Among them, regular script is the basis of modern calligraphy and the most commonly used writing method.