Abstract:
Small seal script is mainly based on the Qin Seal script, which is preserved on Qin stone inscriptions. There exist differences between the small seal script of Shuowen and the Qin Seal script. The comparison of the two reveals the principle of character collection and compilation in Shuowen. In the aspect of configuration, optimization, simplification, and minor discrimination of graph forms demonstrate the restriction on Small Seal script of Shuowen by its configuration system. In the aspect of formmeaning relation, the salience and differentiation of meaning reflected by graphic form and reconfiguration of motivation show the intensification and persistence of Chinese characters’ ideographic nature. The similarities and differences of small seal script in Shuowen and the Qin Seal script reflect the reliability as well as complexity of graphic form in Shuowen.The comparison shows the inner rule of optimization of graphic forms and confirms the existence of the formmeaning system in Shuowen.