Wax Seals - A Calligraphy Art Form
Wax Seals are as old as the art of writing itself, used to authenticate a document and prevent tampering. There is evidence as far back as Ancient Greece that their kings used signet rings. A seal consists of an embossed figure which has been embedded into wax or directly onto the paper. Very often the seal was used to identify the sender as someone of great importance, such as the government, monarchy or clergy. Although the wax seal has played a very important role throughout history, nowadays it is used more for decoration purposes. Calligraphy artists are particularly interested in using seals, which itself can be a work of art. |
 |
A document or letter was sealed by dripping wax over the joint in the letter and then impressing a unique stamp into it. The seal prevented someone from opening the document before it reached its intended recipient, as well as proving its authenticity. If the document was opened the seal would break, which meant that the seal could not be reused by a forger.
A seal is a unique symbol to identify the sender, which very often expresses their personality. Individuals would commission a seal engraver to produce a personalized seal, and were considered artists in their own right. Common motifs are animals and coats of arms. The art of seal engraving is particularly important in Asia, and is considered a type of Calligraphy. Today it is very common in Asia to use a seal instead of a handwritten signature. Usually the seal shows the name of the sender or their company, but it can also show a poem or motto.
The wearing of Signet rings was very common amongst European nobles, who used it to signify their wealth and position. The ring was worn on the little finger with the seal facing outwards so that an impression could be made without taking it off. The signet ring was an integral part of a monarchy’s ceremony outfit because it signified power.
Relevant Articles
>Traditional Calligraphy Sets - Feather Quill Pens, Venetian Glass Pens, Wood Dip Pens and more
