Wang Xizhi, a preeminent calligrapher of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, is revered as the “Sage of Calligraphy.” His life was not only marked by extraordinary artistic achievements but also enriched by numerous intriguing anecdotes. Among the most famous tales is “Exchanging Scriptures for Geese,” a story that reflects his artistic sensitivity and zest for life.
The story unfolded during Wang Xizhi’s tenure as an official in Kuaiji (present-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang). He harbored a peculiar passion: an ardent love for observing geese, particularly their graceful movements as they swam in water. Wang believed that the curves of a goose’s neck and the rhythmic elegance of their swimming could inspire his calligraphy, helping him refine the fluidity and beauty of his brushwork. It is believed that the various styles of the Chinese character “之” in his masterpiece the Lanting Xu – Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection are inspired by the geese.
One day, Wang Xizhi heard that a Taoist priest in Shanyin (modern-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang) owned a flock of rare white geese. Their feathers were as pure as snow, their crowns vividly red and full, and their forms exceptionally exquisite. Driven by his fascination with geese, Wang immediately visited the priest’s residence to admire them. Upon seeing the geese leisurely floating on the river, he was utterly captivated – the dynamic beauty they created on the water’s surface held him spellbound, and he lingered there, reluctant to leave. He then sent someone to express his wish to purchase the flock.
The Taoist priest, well aware of Wang Xizhi’s renown in calligraphy, smiled and proposed a condition: “Since you admire these geese so much, there’s no need to buy them with money. If you would kindly transcribe the Tao Te Ching (Dao De Jing) for me, I will gift you the entire flock.” Without hesitation, Wang agreed. Immediately, he took up his brush and, with masterful strokes, completed the entire scripture. Upon receiving this precious piece of calligraphy, the priest fulfilled his promise and presented the geese to Wang Xizhi.
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