Jin Kun

Jin Kun refers to a style of traditional Chinese calligraphy. While not a universally recognized or formally codified "school" in the same way as styles like Yan Style (颜体) or Liu Style (柳体), the term typically describes calligraphy characterized by the use of gold or gold-colored ink on a dark, often black or deep blue, background.

The aesthetic emphasizes luxury and opulence, drawing a parallel between the perceived preciousness of gold and the artistic value of the calligraphy itself. The contrasting colors create a striking visual impact, highlighting the strokes and structure of the characters.

The practice is often associated with creating auspicious or celebratory pieces, such as scrolls or couplets presented as gifts for weddings, birthdays, or business openings. The association with wealth and good fortune makes "Jin Kun" calligraphy particularly popular for expressing best wishes.

However, due to the lack of a rigorous, historical definition and the variations in artistic interpretation, usage of the term can be somewhat fluid. The key defining factor remains the distinctive use of gold ink against a dark background.