Dong Zuobin, Couplet in Oracle Bone Script

Dimension: callgraphy 135.25 x 20.1 cm; mounting 169.5 x 28.5 cm

Dong Zuobin (1895-1963) was best known as an archaeologist. Born in Nanyang, He’nan Province, he was one of the so-called “Four Scholars of the Oracle Bones,” and worked at various archaeological sites in China over his long career. Like many scholars, in addition to his research on oracle bones he also practiced calligraphy and copied the oracle bone script. In addition to his academic success, Dong Zuobin navigated the complex Chinese political landscape during periods of great change throughout his life. Oracle Bone script is an ancient Chinese writing system, with examples coming from as early as the 14th century BC. These characters were found written in animal bones or turtle shells used in divination. Although the characters appear pictorial, it is very functional and has thousands of characters. Using the oracle bone script in calligraphy may be a reference to scholarship or antiquity.