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Inkan
This is a personal seal, either round or square in outline, carved into the cross-section of a small block of wood, crystal, stone, ivory or, recently plastic. The name inscribed may be the owner's family name only, his full name including his given name, or his professional name, and the name may be inscribed in one of several different calligraphic styles. Thus, a seal can be made to match exactly the personality, taste and pocket of the owner. Most Japanese people use an inexpensive seal giving their family name only, and this is a legal "signature."But for many official transactions a more elaborate seal, registered with the local government office, must be used.