Gong He ("republic"), written by Sun. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The contents frequently seen in Sun's calligraphy are Tian Xia Wei Gong ("what's under the heaven is for all") and Bo Ai ("universal love"), which are also on show at the current exhibition.

Sun wrote a calligraphic piece of Bo Ai for Mei Pei, a Cantonese who migrated to the United States around 1900.

When Sun was in the US seeking support to overthrow the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), he often dined at Mei's restaurant and communicated with him revolutionary ideas. Mei became one of his important followers in the US and a financial supporter.

Mei died in Hong Kong in 1940. The writing was with his family until 1981 and then donated to the National Museum of China.

"Sun's kaishu (regular script) reveals his broader vision and heroic spirit, while his xingshu (running script) presents an elegant and refreshing side of his personality," says Wang Yujie, a curator at the museum.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn

If you go

9 am-5 pm, through Dec 4. East of Tian'anmen Square, Dongcheng district, Beijing. 010-6511-6188.