Xiling Seal Art Society
Time-Honored BrandXiling Seal Art Society · Shanghai · Founded 1904
Founded in 1904, Xiling Seal Art Society is China's oldest surviving literati society, renowned for its seal carving, calligraphy, and painting. Known as the 'No.1 Society under Heaven,' it has been a beacon of traditional Chinese art and culture for over a century.
Brand Story
Xiling Seal Art Society was founded in 1904 (the 30th year of Guangxu's reign in the Qing Dynasty) by four Zhejiang school seal carvers: Ding Fuzhi, Wang Fu'an, Ye Weiming, and Wu Yin. They established it on Gushan (Solitary Hill) in Hangzhou with the mission to 'preserve epigraphy and study seal art.' In 1913, the renowned modern artist Wu Changshuo was elected as its first president, whose exceptional artistry and influence elevated the society's prestige. Nestled on the scenic Gushan by the West Lake, the society features elegant gardens and houses numerous stone inscriptions, seal impressions, and calligraphic masterpieces, serving as a gathering place for literati. Xiling is not only the highest institution of Chinese seal carving but also an international center for seal art exchange. Its integrated philosophy of poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seal carving has profoundly influenced the development of modern Chinese art.
“Preserve Epigraphy, Study Seal Art”
Signature Products
Made with traditional techniques, this seal paste boasts vibrant colors and clear impressions, essential for calligraphy and seal carving. (50-300 RMB)
Carved by society members or renowned masters, these seals use premium stones and exquisite craftsmanship, offering both artistic and collectible value. (200-2000 RMB)
Compilations of historical seal impressions and members' calligraphy and paintings, balancing academic research and aesthetic appreciation. (50-500 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
Store details are being expanded. Find this brand’s stores and counters on the map below:
Find stores on Amap ↗Shop Online
Official flagship stores / search entries (CPS placements). Replace the links with your own affiliate PID to earn commission with zero inventory.
Cultural Note
Xiling Seal Art Society adheres to its founding mission of 'preserving epigraphy and studying seal art,' carrying forward the Zhejiang school's seal carving techniques and integrating poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seal carving. Its charter stipulates that the society does not have a permanent president but is led by a person of high moral standing, reflecting the spirit of literati self-governance. The society holds annual gatherings to discuss seal art and is dedicated to the collection and preservation of epigraphic materials, leaving a profound impact on modern Chinese art history.
Related Brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Xiling Seal Art Society founded?
Xiling Seal Art Society was founded in 1904, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Crafts field.
What is the signature product of Xiling Seal Art Society?
Its signature product is Xiling Seal Paste. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: