Imagine being entrusted with the task of crafting an emperor’s seal. This prestigious responsibility was symbolically placed on our shoulders during the ‘Seal Cutting’ presentation. On the table lay a small wooden device, a stone block, a black pen, a 15 cm ruler, and a narrow chisel. A pot of red paste stood ready for use. This marked the beginning of an immersive journey into the ancient art of Chinese seal cutting, a tradition that dates back thousands of years to the Shang and Zhou dynasties (circa 1600–256 BCE). Initially, seals, or ‘chops,’ were used by imperial families, high-ranking officials, and institutions to authenticate documents and validate official decrees. During the Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE), seals were standardized and became central to imperial governance, symbolizing power and legitimacy. Crafted from materials like wood, jade, bronze, ivory, and stone, these seals were meticulously engraved by skilled artisans. Over subsequent dynasties, such as the Han, Tang, and Song, the use of seals expanded into the private sector and arts. Artists and scholars adopted personal seals as signatures on calligraphy and paintings, elevating them to cultural and artistic icons. In 2009, Chinese seal cutting was inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Before we, participants of the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, began our hands-on experience, we were briefed on the history of seal cutting. The discovery of three bronze seals in the Yinxu ruins in Anyang (Henan Province) confirmed their use as early as the Shang dynasty (1600–1049 BCE). The art of seal cutting is intricate and multifaceted, showcasing the charm of ancient Chinese characters and culture. It involves three key aspects: character writing, pattern design, and the cutting itself. Designs often feature symbolic motifs like dragons, phoenixes, clouds, and lotus flowers, representing luck, power, wisdom, and longevity. The text typically includes the owner’s name, title, or function, affirming the document’s authenticity and authority. The choice of material and shape further enhances the seal’s significance. Our task was to carve a mirror image of a Chinese character onto a stone block. After securing the stone in a wooden device, we measured and sketched to create an accurate replica. The engraving process was challenging, with participants sighing, laughing, and assisting one another. The room buzzed with chatter and the sharp sound of chisels on stone. After carving, we pressed our seals into red paste and stamped them. Deeper engravings yielded better impressions, and participants eagerly shared their creations. Today, seals remain integral to official documents, contracts, and artworks in China. Traditional techniques blend with modern applications, ensuring this centuries-old art form continues to inspire and endure.
Van keizerlijk symbool tot persoonlijke creatie: de magie van het zegelsnijden
