Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Seal script refers to an ancient form of Chinese writing that originated during the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. It is characterized by its intricate, pictographic characters carved onto seals or other objects.
Related terms
Oracle Bone Script: An even earlier form of Chinese writing found on oracle bones used for divination purposes during the Shang Dynasty.
Clerical Script: A simplified version of seal script developed during the Han Dynasty for administrative purposes.
Calligraphy: The art of beautiful handwriting using brush and ink, often practiced with various scripts including seal script.