Calligraphy Scroll Item Number: N1.246 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
A hanging scroll of calligraphy with one panel of large characters by Dr. Sun Yat-Sen and two panels of smaller characters above, and below. There are seven red seals: two on each of the smaller panels, one on the large panel, and two off to the side of the large panel. The scroll has a cream-coloured border of fabric. There is a semi-cylindrical rod at the top with a brown cord bound by metal wire and cream-coloured fabric with a beige fabric ribbon. There is a cylindrical rod weight at the bottom covered with pink, blue, and light patterned fabric.
Narrative
Dr. Sun Yat-sen 孫中山 (1866–1925) is known as the father of modern China for his role in overthrowing the last dynasty and for serving as the first president of the Republic of China (1911–12). After China’s defeat in the Sino-Japanese War (1894–95), Sun built a revolutionary movement that spanned East Asia, Europe, and North America. Sun’s calligraphy, situated in the centre, is a couplet that reads, “Knowledge should not stray from honesty / actions should not stray from courage.” This phrase references his philosophical doctrine on the integration of knowledge and action, where one arises from the other. The calligraphic colophon above Sun’s verse was added in 1955 and signed by his supporter Lin Jin 林近, who praises Sun’s calligraphic expression of knowledge, action, and leadership. The colophon below is another congratulatory note that lauds Sun’s distinctive calligraphy and brilliant mind.
Item History
- Made by Sun Yat-Sen (Maker) in China between 1910 and 1955
- Collected by Ping-Ti Ho
- Owned by Trans-Nation Emporium before December 5, 1960
- Received from Leon & Thea Koerner Foundation (Funding source) and Trans-Nation Emporium (Seller) on December 5, 1960
What
Who
- Culture
- Chinese
- Creator
- Sun Yat-Sen (Maker)
- Field Collector
- Ping-Ti Ho
- Previous Owner
- Trans-Nation Emporium
- Received from
- Leon & Thea Koerner Foundation (Funding source) and Trans-Nation Emporium (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- China
When
- Creation Date
- between 1910 and 1955
- Ownership Date
- before December 5, 1960
- Acquisition Date
- on December 5, 1960
Other
- Item Classes
- works on paper; paintings
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 1819/0002