This lot consists of a set of eight used Chinese-style seal stones (tenkoku seals), traditionally employed for calligraphy, painting, and scholarly artistic practice. These seals were carved and used, leaving beautiful impressions that reflect the expressive aesthetics of East Asian seal engraving. The seals are made from a variety of traditional carving stones including Shoushan stone, Qingtian stone, Furong stone, and Balin stone, materials that have been prized for centuries by calligraphers and seal engravers for their softness, fine grain, and elegant coloration. Each stone displays natural variations in color ranging from creamy white and pale green to warm orange and reddish tones, with some stones showing natural inclusions that add character and uniqueness. Several seals feature stylized Chinese characters carved in traditional seal script (篆書, Tensho), while others present symbolic or abstract designs typical of personal seals or studio marks. The impressions visible in the photographs demonstrate the expressive carving style and the unique identity of each seal. Such seals were commonly used by scholars, artists, and collectors in China and Japan to authenticate artworks, sign calligraphy, or decorate paintings with a personal mark. Today they are appreciated as collectible objects and as tools connected with the long tradition of East Asian literati culture. Because the seals are already carved and used, they convey the authentic atmosphere of traditional calligraphy studios and are ideal for collectors of Asian art, seal engraving enthusiasts, or those interested in traditional calligraphy tools. The set offers a charming variety of stone types, carving styles, and sizes, making it an attractive collection for display or study. Estimated period: late Showa period (昭和後期, 1970–1980s CE). Artist / Maker Information The individual makers of these seals are unknown. In traditional East Asian seal culture, seals are often carved either by professional seal engravers or by scholars and calligraphers themselves. The art of seal carving, known as tenkoku (篆刻) in Japan and zhuanke (篆刻) in China, developed over more than two thousand years and became an important part of literati culture. Stones such as Shoushan, Qingtian, Furong, and Balin have long been favored materials because they are soft enough for precise carving while also durable. These stones were widely used from the Qing dynasty through the modern period and remain highly appreciated among seal collectors and artists. Size Largest seal: approx. 9 × 4 × 4 cm — 441 g Smallest seal: approx. 3.5 × 2 × 2 cm — 29 g Total weight: approx. 890 g Condition: (Please refer to the photos for details) - This is a vintage / pre-owned item. - Due to age and previous use, there may be signs of wear such as scratches, stains, discoloration, or creases. - Please note that vintage items may have a distinctive smell due to long-term storage or materials used. Sensitivity to such odors may vary from person to person and from country to country. - We try to describe the condition as accurately as possible, but perceptions may differ depending on individual standards. - Colors may appear slightly different depending on your monitor or lighting when the photos were taken. - Please purchase only if you understand and appreciate the unique characteristics of vintage items. Shipping The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by mainly Japan Post or DHL depend on the situation. It will be shipped from Japan, so it takes about 2-3 weeks to receive normally. Please understand that we use recycled materials (cardboard, old newspapers, etc.) as much as possible for packaging materials in order to protect the environment. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customs or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer their contact. If you don't, the parcel will be returned to us and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. Thank you for your cooperation.