Part IV Translation (30 minutes)
Directions: For this part, you are allowed 30 minutes to translate a passage from Chinese into English. You should write your answer on Answer Sheet 2.
自古以来,印章在中国就是身份的凭证和权力的象征。印章不仅具有实用性,而且也是一种艺术形式,是一门集书法与雕刻于一体的古老艺术,经常被看作与书画并列的独立艺术品。印章从材料的选择、制作的工艺到字体的设计,都具有极其丰富的美学表现。其他国家的艺术家通常在其绘画作品上签名,而中国艺术家则往往在其书画作品上盖上印章代替签名。这样,印章也就成为作品的组成部分,是体现作品独特性的一种方式。
参考译文:
Since ancient times, seals have served as a proof of identity and a symbol of power in China. Seals are not only practical but also an art form, an ancient art that integrates calligraphy and carving. They are often regarded as independent artworks on a par with paintings and calligraphy. From the selection of materials, the craftsmanship of production to the design of fonts, seals exhibit extremely rich aesthetic expressions. While artists from other countries typically sign their names on their paintings, Chinese artists often affix seals to their calligraphy and painting works instead of signing. In this way, seals become an integral part of the works and a means to embody their uniqueness.
