Dongpo tiba 東坡題跋

Dongpo tiba 東坡題跋 "Notes by Master East Slope" is a collection of colophons on calligraphies and paintings of the famous writer and artist Su Shi 蘇軾 (Su Dongpo 蘇東坡, 1036-1101). The compiler of the book of 6 juan length is unknown. The oldest print dates from the very late Ming period 明 (1368-1644) and was produced by the collector and publisher Mao Jin 毛晉 (1599-1659). He indicates that the book was compiled by Su Shi himself.

The first half of the book mainly contains reflections on reading poetry, literary works, and historical texts. Juan 4 focuses on inscriptions and colophons (ti-ba 題跋) related to the art of calligraphy, while fascicle 5 discusses those related to paintings. The final section includes various notes on brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones and inscriptions created during visits to renowned historical and scenic sites.

Su Shi believed that calligraphy reflects the stylistic character and artistic taste of the writer. While he acknowledged that one cannot fully discern a person's character solely from their calligraphy, he also noted that beyond mere technical skill or lack thereof, every piece of writing carries a certain charm that can offer insights into the artist's moral disposition, whether upright or corrupt. Su Shi advocated for diligence and perseverance in the study of calligraphy, emphasising the importance of unwavering dedication. However, he also believed one should not be overly rigid in practice. At times, attending to other aspects of life and art could unexpectedly lead to a deeper understanding of the true essence of calligraphy.

Su Shi asserts that actual artistic value resides in expressing spirit and meaning rather than fixating on technical precision and external details. The works of scholar-painters (shiren 士人) emphasise personal expression, profound meaning (sizhi 思致), and an elegant style, which set them apart from the more technically focused and detailed creations of professional painters (huagong 畫工).

The theories of literati painting in the Yuan period 元 (1279-1368) and Dong Qichang's 董其昌 (1555-1636) "Southern and Northern Schools Theory" (nan-beizong shuo 南北宗説) in the late Ming period both expanded upon the foundations laid by Su Shi. However, Su Shi's preferences in painting differ somewhat from those of later literati painters. For instance, he did not belittle coloured landscape painting.

The text is included in the series Jindai mishu 津逮秘書 and Congshu jicheng chubian 叢書集成初編.