Artist: Zhao Zhiqian
Date: Qing (AD 1644-1911)
Dimensions: Length 3.4 cm, Width 7.3 cm, Height 4.8 cm
Material: Stone
Zhao Zhiqian was a versatile man of the late Qing dynasty, noted for painting, calligraphy and seal carving. His seal with inscription Ci Lan Tang was commissioned by Pan Zuyin, the Minister of Works. Pan named his building Ci Lan Tang (House of the Awarded Orchid Brush) for being granted by Empress Dowager Cixi with the Orchid Brush. This seal is decorated with vigorous double dragons. The seal script followed the style of calligraphy style of Deng Shiru, showing free and dynamic momentum.