Japanese calligraphy written on a white 7-inch square board. Calligraphy is an art form that has been studied for over three thousand years. A knowledge of calligraphy is an important step in the understanding of Japanese culture. Calligraphy is the foremost art form of the Orient. Japanese calligraphy (sho in Japanese) attempts to bring words to life, and endow them with character. Styles are highly individualistic, differing from person to person. Donor's name and occasion information were not provided to the City Clerk's office.