THE ART OF SEAL CUTTING

Seal cutting craftsmanship refers to the art and technique of engraving characters or patterns on seal materials, which has a long history and is particularly renowned in China.

 

Seal cutting craftsmanship is an art that combines calligraphy and engraving, primarily used for making seals. It integrates various art forms such as calligraphy, painting, and engraving, possessing high artistic and practical value.Carving works not only require correct characters and reasonable layout but also pursue exquisite knife techniques and the overall aesthetic appeal of the seal. With its unique artistic charm and profound cultural heritage, carving art has become an important part of traditional Chinese culture.

During the Shang Dynasty, people began engraving characters on tortoise shells and animal bones, known as oracle bone inscriptions, which can be regarded as the embryonic form of carving art. By the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period, the use of seals gradually became widespread, and carving art began to take shape.

The Qin and Han dynasties were prosperous periods for carving art. Carved seals were also called "xi" at this time. After Qin Shi Huang unified the six states, he stipulated the use of “xi”, making seals symbols of power and status. Subsequently, carving art underwent evolution and development during periods such as the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, the Song and Yuan dynasties, gradually forming a unique artistic style and rich cultural connotations.

 

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the carvings from this period exhibited mature techniques and diverse styles, with numerous renowned carvers emerging, such as Wen Peng, He Zhen, and Ding Jing. Their works had a profound impact on later generations, promoting the prosperous development of carving art.