What Is a Chinese Name Seal? A Beginner’s Guide
A beginner-friendly explanation of Chinese name seals, the kinds of inscriptions they may carry, and practical questions to consider before selecting a design.
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Stories, notes and practical guides from Seal of East.
Where to Place an Artist Seal on a Chinese Painting
A practical guide to planning an artist seal on a Chinese painting. Treat placement as part of the composition, then check the work’s scale, signature, and available space.
Read articleHow to Care for a Chinese Seal: Cleaning and Storage
Simple care habits can help keep a Chinese seal ready for the next impression. Learn how to remove loose residue, store a seal safely, and know when to ask a conservator for advice.
Read articleOne-Character Chinese Seal: A Practical Planning Guide
Questions to consider when planning a compact seal around one Chinese character, from character choice to proof review.
Read articleChinese Seal with Bamboo or Plum: A Motif Planning Guide
A practical design brief for considering bamboo or plum as a personal seal motif, with questions to review in a proof.
Read articleChinese Seal Design Styles: Classic, Botanical, or Animal
Compare three visual directions for a personal Chinese seal and use them to prepare a focused design brief.
Read articleWhat Is a Ruyi Seal? Understanding the Design
Learn how the ruyi motif appears in Chinese decorative art and what to consider when selecting a ruyi finish for a personal seal.
Read articleWhat Is a Qilin Seal? A Guide to the Motif
A concise guide to the qilin motif, its place in art, and practical questions for comparing a seal design.
Read articleChinese Seal for Greeting Cards: A Simple Guide
Use this practical checklist to plan a personal seal impression on a greeting card without crowding the message or artwork.
Read articleWhat to Look for in a Chinese Seal’s Carved Top
A practical guide to the carved top of a Chinese seal: learn how to look at its form, stone, carving details, and relationship to the seal face.
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