Curatorial notes
These are impressions from several of Shitao's seals, carved in stone, dating back to the Qing dynasty in China. Seals were incredibly important for artists like Shitao, functioning as signatures and markers of authenticity. The act of applying a seal wasn't just bureaucratic; it was a conscious decision, embedding the artist's identity and intent into the artwork. The seals themselves are a blend of personal expression and cultural norms. The script, the materials, and even the size of the seal were all steeped in tradition. Shitao's social position as a member of the fallen Ming imperial family adds another layer. His turn to art and religion were shaped by the Manchu conquest. He had to navigate his identity carefully in a changed political landscape, which makes his choice of seals—and how he used them—a fascinating window into his self-presentation. By researching seals used in that time and place, we can learn about the complex social and political forces that shaped even the most personal artistic choices.
