Have your English name inscribed on a beautiful stone seal

Seals have played an important role in Chinese history. They symbolize power, dignity, and authority. If you come to Beijing, you can get a rare and beautiful stone seal with your name inscribed on it.

On the second floor of Hongqiao Market near the Temple of Heaven, there is a seal-cutting shop. I went there a few days ago.

The shopkeeper is also a seal sculptor. He told me that seals were widely used in ancient China, especially during the Warring States Period.

Then he showed me a number of elegant Shoushan stones, the best stone for making seals. They only come from the southeastern part of China. One can easily be attracted by their natural luster and nice colors, such as yellow, red, white, grey, and black.

Some of the stones have small sculptures on top like lions, unicorns, and any of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Just pick one the most appealing to you, and the shopkeeper will beautifully carve your name right away.

Apart from seals, the shop also carries various traditional Chinese handicrafts like bronze, jade, and woodcarvings. I especially like their inscribed bamboo items. One of them is even engraved with the full text of the Art of War both in Chinese and English!

What I appreciated

Shoushan stone seals, traditional handicrafts

What customers appreciate

Cutting name on seals on the spot, Chinese arts and crafts