The Birth of the Emperor’s Seal and the Symbol of the Republic
The “Emperor’s Seal” in Chinese history was an important symbol of the republic and legitimacy. It was first defined by Qin Shi Huang, who unified the fractured states during the Warring States period. Qin Shi Huang created a special seal, the “Emperor’s Seal,” to announce his title as “Emperor” and to signify that he was the legitimate ruler of the empire.
The “Emperor’s Seal” was consistently made of jade, and the inscription on it indicated governing authority. Many of the jade seals from the Qin dynasty onward used a knop shaped like a dragon, known as the “Chi Long Seal,” which itself symbolized divine legitimacy. Next, I will explain how the seals from the Qin dynasty influenced those that followed.
The Origin and Development of the Emperor’s Imperial Seal
In Japan, the “Emperor’s Imperial Seal” was established as a symbol of national governance with the formation of the ritsuryō system. During the Nara period, records show that the “Emperor’s Imperial Seal” was used by the emperor to seal official documents.
The Emperor’s Imperial Seal was used in important national decrees and imperial edicts, and its imprint served to guarantee the authenticity of these documents. The modern Emperor’s Imperial Seal is made of metal and inscribed with the characters “天皇御璽” (Emperor’s Imperial Seal) in Seal Style. This seal symbolizes Japan’s unique cultural traditions and represents how the sealing system, which originated in China, developed uniquely in Japan.
Comparison of the Emperor’s Seal and the Emperor’s Imperial Seal
Material and Design
The Emperor’s Seal was primarily made of jade, with the knop often carved with mythical animals such as dragons or tigers. In contrast, the Emperor’s Imperial Seal is made of metal and retains a simple design. This difference reflects China’s emphasis on mythical and religious symbols, while Japan focused on practicality.
Usage Context
The Emperor’s Seal was established after Qin unified China during the Warring States period and symbolized absolute national control. On the other hand, the Emperor’s Imperial Seal was used for official documents under Japan’s ritsuryō system, emphasizing the emperor’s symbolic position.
Political Significance
The Chinese Emperor’s Seal symbolized the emperor’s governing authority and was used to demonstrate the legitimacy of national unification. In contrast, the Japanese Emperor’s Imperial Seal was used when the emperor, as a symbolic figurehead, carried out state affairs, symbolizing the unity of the nation and the emperor.
Influence of Seal Culture
Seals are not just tools but significant cultural heritage that symbolize the authority of both the state and individuals. The Chinese Emperor’s Seal greatly influenced the subsequent seal carving culture and the art of calligraphy. Meanwhile, Japan’s Emperor’s Imperial Seal continues to function as an important national symbol to this day.
The differing developments of seal culture in China and Japan reflect the historical, political, and cultural differences between the two countries. Seals continue to play an important role as symbols of authority in both nations.
Conclusion
The “Emperor’s Seal” and the “Emperor’s Imperial Seal” are seals that symbolize governance and authority in their respective countries and carry cultural and historical significance beyond their function as mere seals. These seals have served as symbols of authority throughout history and continue to be regarded as important cultural heritage in both countries. The differences in Chinese and Japanese culture as seen through the use of seals contribute to a deeper understanding of both nations’ cultural identities today.
Comments