19th century

Scholar's Rock

Artist/maker unknown

Rocks with extraordinary forms have been appreciated for their aesthetic merit by Chinese scholars for more than one thousand years. Traditionally, scholar's rocks were displayed in the intimate setting of the scholar's studio. They are often mounted on finely fitted and carved wooden stands and placed in a spot where the scholar can gaze upon their form in quiet contemplation.

This majestic rock evokes the qualities of a monumental precipice in a mountainous Chinese landscape. Charcoal gray and streaked with white, the rock is especially striking when seen from the front and sides, which are covered with deep and long columnar shafts and deep, vertical furrows. The comparatively smooth back allows for a less obstructed view of two wonderful c-shaped hollows at the side of the rock. A large example such as this one might be placed directly on the floor, where it would evoke imagery of a mountainous landscape or one of the Isles of the Immortals. The wooden stand has a pleasing, undulating surface that is characteristic of 19th century stands.

This rock lets out a bell-like ring when struck, a quality that is highly prized by collectors.