Disciple Within the Forest

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This natural seal describes a disciple who lives in a dwelling within the forest, and is indicative of an exemplary form of Buddhist practice. This seal consists of four characters, aligned in a single column within a tight and compact layout. The edge of the oval shape was left broken with intent to preserve the aged charm, and the stark contrast between positive and negative space makes the overall composition extraordinary. Stroke lines are curved while the spacing between each character is consistent and precise.
Xu Sangeng, born in Shangyu, Zhejiang, was a Qing dynasty (1644–1911) seal engraver and calligrapher. He studied the Zhejiang school methodology under Chen Hongshou and Zhao Zhichen in his early years. Xu was bold and creative in his engraving and had a special skill for manipulating the spacing of strokes in just the right way to bring forth the uniqueness of each individual character. His works were compiled in Collection of Seals by Xu.