The Yuan Zhen Epitaph was carved in the twentieth year of the Taihe reign of Emperor Xiaowen of Wei, in the eleventh month of 496 CE. Each line contains eighteen characters, with seventeen lines in total. It was unearthed in 1926 at Gaogou Village, northwest of Luoyang, and is now preserved in the Xi'an Beilin Museum. The size of the strokes varies naturally according to the number of strokes in each character, creating a harmonious and balanced effect. The structure of individual characters expands and contracts appropriately, with careful spacing and mutual accommodation. The forms are gathered inward yet open outward, giving a sense of ease and generosity. The brushwork is primarily square, while also incorporating rounded strokes. Its movements of lifting, pressing, pausing, and turning are clearly defined. Many strokes contain three turns within a single line, with both downward and upward tendencies, producing the effect of a light entry and a heavy finish. Among the many Northern Wei epitaphs, this stone may be regarded as an outstanding work.