Seal ink

Seals have been made since at least three thousand years ago in China for official, artistic, literary, commercial and personal use instead of a signature. At first they were impressed into clay, but from about the third century seal ink, usually red, was employed.

1. Tap seal several times in the ink. Excessive inking causes smudge.
2. Slide a paper pad, which can be made by unsized rice paper in folds, under the art to be sealed. To keep the seal square, use a wooden T.