Still strong at 100

Yao has assimilated the refined essence of many famous calligraphers and developed his own style, said Huang.

A personal interest developed since he was a child is a special penchant for scripts carved on ancient stele. He likes to copy those words.

It helped him to learn scripts of each dynasty, which in turn assisted him greatly in developing his own scripts.

Bai Jingfeng, a director of the China Calligraphers Association, said he is amazed at Yao's long and strong creative force even at 100 years old.

In 2010, Yao damaged his lower back in a small accident. He was forced to spend most his time in bed for six months, according to Bai.

But he miraculously regained his health a year later and can now walk with ease.

He picked up writing brush and resumed practicing scripts and even created many works last year.

Last June, Yao traveled the long distance from his hometown in Shanxi province to Beijing, to unveil an exhibition of his calligraphy and that of his mentor Zhang Taiyan at the National Museum of China.

"These works are still full of energy and spirit," Bai said. "You will be surprised to find out they were created by a centenarian."