Brahma’s Degradation to the Human World

CHINA

This seven characters seal is set in a three-column arrangement. It consists of a middle column with three characters, which is flanked by a two-character column on either side; the format is adapted in order to create a balanced composition. Reading from top to bottom and right to left, the seal illustrates the concept of the deity, Brahma, being reborn as an average person into the human world after exhausting all of his merits. This is largely due to self-delusions regarding himself as the all-powerful creator of the world.
The seal was carved with strong strokes and creatively integrates seal script calligraphy. Colophons on the side of the seal denote the date of inscription, as well as the location and a four-phrase verse. The verse expresses the artist’s desire that one will draw lessons from Brahma’s mistake by letting go of the illusions of desire, while keeping evil and hatred at bay. Another side of the seal features an engraved image of the Buddha.
Born in Shanghai, Deng Sanmu was originally named Juchu. He was a seal engraver, calligrapher and poet, as well as an expert on the steles of the Southern and Northern Dynasties (386–589). Deng’s calligraphy evolved with age, taking on a natural, innocent, and refreshing style.