All Sentient Beings Are Blessed by the Buddha

CHINA

In the middle of this square seal is an image of the Buddha, seated in full lotus position. Prayers in regular script appear on either side of the figure. On the right, the prayer reads, “All the Sentient Beings,” and continued on the left side, “Blessed by the Buddha.” Expressive of the Buddha’s mercy, the words, in combination with the unique design of the seal, convey a resounding message. The meticulous carving skills of the artist are demonstrated by the use of thin, powerful lines, which express solemnity in the Buddha’s gazing eyes.
Deng Erya, originally named Mingpu, studied in Japan and was an expert on ancient inscriptions. He learned the art of seal engraving from Huang Shiling and eventually created his own unique style by blending the ancient Chinese scripts of former dynasties. Deng carried forward the Lingnan (southern China) school methods and was known for his coarse and lively cutting method.