One of twenty-one seals c. 800

This is one of twenty-one seals by an anonymous artist. Consider the intimate nature of a seal, often used to mark personal documents or property. This particular seal, with its worn surface and faded markings, speaks to its history of use. As an object, it transcends its simple function, becoming a marker of identity and ownership within a complex social system. The image on the seal, though now obscured, likely held significant meaning for its owner, representing status, lineage, or personal beliefs. As we contemplate this object, let's think about the ways in which our own identities are constructed and communicated through the objects we choose to surround ourselves with. Do these objects reflect who we are, or who we aspire to be? In a world of mass production, what do these artifacts tell us about identity and self-expression?