ADAM'S Fine Asian Art 25th June 2025

FINE ASIAN ART | 89 252 A FINELY INSCRIBED MOUTAIN SHAPED TIANHUANG SEAL 民国田黄‘文人故事’山形印章 印文：我书意造本无法；边款：密州刘燕亭藏 China, Republic period H.7cm Seal size.3.7x2.2cm Weight.132g € 5,000 - 6,000 Note Many scholars and literati often used well-known lines from classical poetry or proverbs as the inscription on their personal seals, expressing both their respect and admiration for the masters of the past as well as serving as a form of self-encourage- ment and reflection. The phrase “ 我书意造本无法 ” , meaning “My calligraphy is formed from intention, fundamentally without method,” originates from a poem by the renowned Song dynasty scholar Su Shi ( 苏轼) . In his poem 《石苍舒醉墨堂》 , Su Shi emphasizes that his cal- ligraphy is not constrained by rigid rules, but rather flows naturally from inner thought and creative intention. This reflects the core of the “Shang Yi” ( 尚意 ) tradition in Song dynasty calligraphy, which values personal expression over technical formality. The phrase conveys the idea that true artistry transcends method—when an artist fully understands the rules, they can go beyond them, allowing form to follow spirit. Su Shi’s philosophy had a lasting influence on later generations, encouraging freedom, individuality, and spontaneity in Chinese calligraphy and painting.