What Are Han Dynasty Seals?
“Han seals” is a broad term. It includes official seals, private seals, jade seals, generals’ seals, and more, representing another major peak in the history of ancient Chinese seals.
In seal-carving(seal-engraving/zhuanke) study, however, the term “Han seals” usually refers specifically to the finely cast official seals of the Han dynasty. Jade seals and generals’ seals are often treated as separate categories. Jade seals feature fine, strong, and evenly balanced strokes, with lines spaced at equal distances, giving them a unique sense of beauty. General’s seals, on the other hand, were often carved quickly and directly; their strokes are bold and powerful, and the overall layout appears more spontaneous.
