Click on image for a larger image and description

Most writing on clay was used for purposes of identification. Some included "names of makers or owners, official titles, places, dates of vessels, and their manufacture" (63).

"The technique of carving or casting seals and stamping their inscriptions on other objects is probably the earliest attempt by the Chinese to duplicate writings by a mechanical device" (57).

Can be traced back as early as the Shang Dynasty

Clay colors distinguished different purposes: "purple and blue for emperors; brown,gray and black for officials; and clay mixed with gold and mercury for sacrificial purposes" (61)

Several variations in text and style indicate flexibility of writing and lack of standardized form through the Warring States period until the Qin dynasty.