What is seal carving?
What is seal carving?
A complete guide to learning about history, techniques, and charm
An easy-to-understand explanation of the world of seal carving, even for beginners. Learn about a part of traditional culture and discover the joy of making your own unique seal.
What is seal carving?
Seal carving is a technique for creating seals that originated in ancient China. Characters are carved into stone or metal, primarily using a unique style of calligraphy called tensho. Seal carving is not only a practical method for creating seals, but also has an artistic aspect, and is considered an important cultural heritage alongside calligraphy and painting.
The history of seal carving
The origins of seal carving date back to the Spring and Autumn Period and Warring States Period in ancient China. Seals were initially used as symbols of identity and authority. From the Han Dynasty onwards, seal carving established itself as an art form, and many master craftsmen emerged, especially during the Qing Dynasty.
Seal carving techniques and tools
Seal carving involves the process of designing the characters and carving them into stone. The tools used are a seal knife, vermilion ink, and seal material. Beginners should choose soft stone.
The appeal of seal carving
The appeal of seal carving is the joy of creating your own original work. It also allows you to come into contact with ancient characters and history, and has a mental relaxation effect.
Modern applications of seal carving
Today, seal carving is enjoyed as an art form and hobby. It's also popular to create hand-carved seals as special gifts. As digitalization advances, the warmth of handcrafted work is becoming more and more valued.
