Weng Fanggang 翁方綱

Weng Fanggang (1733–1818) was a prominent Chinese calligrapher, poet, and scholar of the Qing dynasty. He was a key figure in the epigraphic movement, which emphasized the study and emulation of ancient inscriptions and steles. Weng's work was instrumental in the revival of interest in Han dynasty stone carvings and inscriptions, influencing subsequent generations of scholars and artists. His scholarly pursuits were complemented by his official career, during which he held various governmental positions, allowing him to travel extensively and collect ancient texts and artifacts. Weng's contributions to the fields of calligraphy and epigraphy were significant, as he advocated for a return to classical styles and rigorous textual analysis. His legacy is preserved in his extensive writings and the influence he exerted on the literati culture of his time.