Seals of the Chinese Scholar

Seals were an important piece of equipment for any Chinese scholar or official. They were made by carving semi-precious stones. The Chinese believe that a signature can be forged, while a seal carved in stone cannot. Chinese seals were a sign of the position and status of the owner, but also of their taste. The holder was a carving - an image of an animal or mythical creature. Seals were held in reverence. They were essential to confirm the authenticity of a document. Every important citizen had to have their own seal. Officials, as well as artists, craftsmen, merchants and collectors were obliged to have them. Seals were imprinted with cinnabar paste, often next to or instead of the signature. Two seals are on display: a name seal and a fortune seal.