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Edo Period History
Seals
A SEAL OR SOMEONE'S SIGNATURE NEVER makes a painting more beautiful; though it can make it famous. There are two major types of seals, intaglio and relief. A Relief seal is created by carving away the medium of the seal, leaving the imagery protruding which transfers color to the the painting. Intaglio seals have the imagery carved away, leaving the color of the silk to create the image. (examples of both can be seen in the Jakuchu below)
It is true that a seal and signature can help authenticate a painting, but it was not really uncommon for an artist to seal and sign a student's painting to express his pleasure in the student's progress. It was as if to say, "I am proud to have my name upon your painting." Purchase a painting because of its beauty and what it means to you; if so, you will never own an ugly fake.
The seals below are all reproduced at actual size. (assuming a 72 DPI monitor)
 Hoitsu |
 Jackuchu |
 Kiitsu |
 Kunisada |
 Mitsuoki |
 Yukinobu |
 Rosetsu |
 Shohaku |
 Sosen |
 Zeshin |