Shin-gyo-so (真行草)

The entry defines shin-gyo-so as a three-part classification of styles in calligraphy, naming kaisho, gyosho, and sosho. It also says the term extends to linked verse, flower arrangement, painting, gardens, architecture, performance, and etiquette, where it marks different degrees of formality.

The entry contrasts Chinese and Japanese usage. In Chinese calligraphy, shin is the most orthodox form and gyo and so follow it. In Japan, especially in the medieval period, the three came to be treated as equal in value, and so could even be viewed as the most fully mastered style. The text also links the term to wabi aesthetics, training stages, shukaku, hakaku, and the related idea of shuhari.

Reading notes

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• A three-part scheme for calligraphic style that names kaisho, gyosho, and sosho.
• The term also applies by extension to renga, haikai, flower arrangement, painting, gardens, architecture, performance, and etiquette.
• In Chinese calligraphy, shin has the highest value and gyo and so follow it.
• In Japan, especially in the medieval period, the three were treated as equal, and so could be viewed as the most mastered style.
• The entry connects this shift with wabi aesthetics and with training stages such as shukaku and hakaku.
• A near-synonymous expression given in the text is shuhari.