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The history of Seal Script (Zhuanshu) is a fascinating narrative spanning thousands of years, beginning with its earliest use on oracle bones and bronze vessels during the Shang Dynasty. Over time, Zhuanshu evolved through different periods, eventually becoming the official script of the Qin Dynasty before evolving into other forms of calligraphy. Its history is critical for an understanding of Chinese writing. The earliest forms of Zhuanshu are found on oracle bones and bronze inscriptions of the Shang Dynasty. These early forms, known as Jiaguwen (oracle bone script) and Jinwen (bronze script), are characterized by their pictographic qualities, and they are the ancient roots from which all Chinese writing grew. These characters were often used for divinatory purposes. As writing evolved, so did Zhuanshu. During the Zhou Dynasty, these earlier scripts gave rise to Great Seal Script (Dazhuan), which featured more complex and elaborate character structures. Dazhuan forms often used rounded strokes and uniform line thickness to create their elegant visual style. The Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) marked a significant turning point with the standardization of the writing system by the First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. At this time, the more simplified and formalized Small Seal Script (Xiaozhuan) was adopted as the official script. This standardized form made writing more uniform throughout China. The transition from Great Seal Script to Small Seal Script reflects the historical need for efficiency and unity. While Xiaozhuan may have been simpler, it still retained many of the key characteristics of Zhuanshu, including its elegance and balance. This history shows a clear line of evolution of Chinese characters. |
Tag : zhuanshu history, seal script evolution, oracle bone script, qin dynasty calligraphy, chinese calligraphy history
This article examines the influence of Seal Script on later styles of Chinese calligraphy, including Clerical, Regular, and Cursive scripts, highlighting its enduring legacy.
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.
While Seal Script originated from practical needs, over time it evolved into a respected art form characterized by its focus on line, balance, and form. The beauty of Seal Script lies in the elegance and fluidity of its brushstrokes, the attention to detail, and the overall harmony of each character. Artists spend years mastering Seal Script technique, learning that each stroke is imbued with meaning and artistic expression.
This article explains the differences between Greater Seal Script (Dazhuan) and Lesser Seal Script (Xiaozhuan), highlighting their historical context and stylistic variations.
This article explores the philosophical principles underlying Seal Script, including balance, harmony, simplicity, and mindfulness, demonstrating the connection between the art form and Chinese thought.