The secrets hidden in the details: A brief discussion on the seals and inscriptions of antique auction items

In the field of antique collection and appreciation, seals and inscriptions are often important bases for judging the authenticity, age and value of an auction item. They are not only the embodiment of craftsmanship and aesthetics, but also the witness of historical culture. Today, we will explore three common types of seals and understand the secrets behind them.

1. Official kiln seals
Official kiln seals are usually used for royal porcelain and handicrafts. The most common form is blue and white base or cinnabar color, usually written as “year number”, such as “Kangxi year”, “Qianlong year”, etc. This type of seal is neat and regular, with vigorous fonts, often in the form of seal script, representing the highest level of royal craftsmanship at the time.

Features:

Font: mainly seal script

Location: bottom or inner wall of the object

Function: indicate the dynasty and production identity

2. Workshop seals
Workshop seals are mainly used for folk crafts and porcelain to record the place of production or the name of the workshop. For example, “Made in Jingdezhen”, “Imitated in Chenghua”, etc. Although this type of seal is not as authoritative as the official kiln seal, it reflects the diversity of folk art.

Features:

Fonts: Diverse, including regular script, official script, etc.

Location: bottom or side of the object

Function: mark the place of origin and the name of the workshop

3. Artist’s Private Seal
Artists often use private seals on calligraphy, painting, sculpture or ceramic works to show their identity and personality. This type of seal has a strong personal style. The seal text may be a name, pseudonym or elegant name, or even contain meaningful words.

Features:

Font: Seal script, official script, and cursive script

Location: Corner or prominent place of the work

Function: To highlight the artist’s identity and style