Thoughts on the Artistic Standpoint of the Study of Seal Cutting in the Ming and Qing Dynasties

Abstract

Seals have appeared in China since the Yin and Shang dynasties, and the art of seal cutting was once all the rage during the Qin and Han dynasties. With the development and popularization of papermaking and printing technology, the combination of seals and calligraphy and painting has become more common. Calligraphers and painters have their own private seals for signing off their works. These seals, each with its own characteristics, maintain harmony and unity with the aesthetic taste of the artist and his painting and calligraphy works, revealing a strong artistic atmosphere and humanistic feelings. In the art history of Chinese seal cutting, the Ming and Qing dynasties have unique characteristics. Related scholars are more inclined to explore the Ming and Qing seal cutting from the standpoint of art. In-depth study of the development history and artistic creation elements of the Ming and Qing seal cutting art was conducted which is conducive to a better understanding of the seal cutting in Ming and Qing dynasties. Significant references and guidance are therefore presented for us to better grasp the characteristics and connotation of seal cutting.