Contemplate Words of Chan

CHINA; Qing dynasty

The phrase “Contemplate Words of Chan” suggests that utilizing words to explain Chan would inhibit one from attaining its true meaning; Chan is meant to come from the mind, therefore, one should not contemplate and ponder over words of Chan. The four white characters on this seal were carved in a fine and balanced layout. Although the seal script appears curvaceous, there is a hint of angularity, imparting a gracious and smooth elegance. The engraving style shows natural movement and displays the significance of the strokes with a clean cutting method. Zhao Mu was also known as Mufu or Muyuan, and was a native of Changzhou, Jiangsu. He was skilled in calligraphy, painting, seal engraving, and crafts such as bamboo carving. A specialist in carving seals, he studied with Wu Xizai in his early years and later became an expert on Qin and Han styles, as well as the Anhui and Zhejiang schools. His works were known for their deep cuts, natural and vigorous roundness, and simplicity.