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The unification of China by Qin Shi Huang in 221 BCE marked a pivotal moment, not only politically but also culturally, and especially in the realm of writing. Prior to this unification, various regions of China had diverse writing forms, leading to complexities in administration and communication. To establish a more efficient and unified empire, Qin Shi Huang ordered the standardization of Chinese writing, resulting in what is now known as "Small Seal Script" or "Xiaozhuan." Before the Qin unification, a form of Seal Script called "Great Seal Script" or "Dazhuan" existed, a more complex and variable form based on Zhou Dynasty styles. Great Seal Script was characterized by many different variations and forms, making writing and reading cumbersome. To address this, the Qin Dynasty established Small Seal Script, a simpler and more uniform form characterized by smoother strokes and even proportions. The process of standardizing Seal Script required considerable effort and skill. Li Si, a prominent official of the Qin Dynasty, played a crucial role in this process. He commissioned the codification of earlier forms of Seal Script into a standardized version that was then adopted as the official script of the empire. This standardization not only promoted efficiency in the bureaucracy but also laid the groundwork for the development of Chinese calligraphy. The impact of the standardization of Small Seal Script was far-reaching. It ensured that official documents, decrees, inscriptions, and historical records across the entire empire were written and understood consistently. The standardization also led to further development in the practice of calligraphy, where brushstrokes and layout began to be considered as aesthetic qualities. The Qin Dynasty's work in standardizing Seal Script marks a watershed moment in the history of Chinese calligraphy. It solidified Seal Script's place not only in practical writing but also enhanced its status as an art form. The standardized Small Seal Script laid the foundation for the development of subsequent calligraphic styles and influenced Chinese culture for generations. |
Although Seal Script is no longer in common use in modern Chinese, it has had a profound impact on the development of Chinese characters, and the link between them is essential. Seal Script serves as the foundation for other forms of calligraphy, like Clerical, Regular, and Running scripts, which are now more commonly used in daily life. Studying Seal Script offers a deeper understanding of the evolution and complexity of Chinese characters.
This article examines the essential tools used in Seal Script calligraphy, including brushes, ink, inkstones, and paper, highlighting their specific characteristics and importance in the art form.
The art of Seal Script is not only in the strokes of the calligrapher's brush but also in the diverse materials used to realize them. The materials used in Seal Script, whether the brush and ink for writing or the stone and metal for carving, contribute significantly to the aesthetic and expressive qualities of the final product. The choice of materials influences the flow of the strokes, the level of detail, and the overall tactile experience.
Discover the best resources for studying Seal Script (Zhuanshu), including books, teachers, and online tools. Find the support and guidance you need to embark on your calligraphy journey.
This article further explores the harmonious partnership between Seal Script and seal carving, focusing on the selection of characters, carving techniques, and the artistic expression involved in this unique art form.