一日寂|Seal
Unknown Artist
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 1 5/16 in. (3.3 cm); W. 1 1/16 in. (2.7 cm); D. 5/8 in. (1.6 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture & Period
China · Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or earlier
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Edward B. Bruce, 1924
Accession Number
24.13.41
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze seal, titled *一日寂* ("One Day of Solitude"), hails from China and dates to the Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or earlier. Measuring just 1 5/16 inches high, 1 1/16 inches wide, and 5/8 inches deep, its petite scale belies its cultural weight. Crafted in the Asian Art tradition of metalwork, the seal features a carved inscription that evokes poetic introspection—a common motif in Chinese artifacts, blending artistry with personal expression. In ancient and imperial China, seals were essential tools for authentication, much like signatures today. Made from durable bronze, they we...