Have you ever wondered how people reproduced inscriptions from stone tablets, bronze vessels, or seals before photography existed? In ancient times, ink rubbings were the answer. People would press paper onto carved surfaces using black ink or pigment to capture the text or image. This traditional technique became essential for preserving, studying, and appreciating calligraphy and seal carving.
This seal by Chang Tien-chine bears the inscription “Stirred by the upheavals of the world” (驚此世變). Along its sides, Chang has carved an excerpt from Self-Mockery, a poem by the Song dynasty poet Lu You, along with four engraved scenes reflecting the impermanence of worldly affairs. What makes this work especially fascinating is Chang’s innovative use of projection. The four carved scenes are displayed through light and shadow, transforming the traditional medium of ink rubbings into a modern visual experience. This shift in presentation invites viewers to rediscover the intricate craftsmanship of seal carving and reflect on the deeper stories this artwork has to tell.
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