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Extraordinary Chinese Taihu Scholar Stone Rare Form on Display Stand

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A stunning Taihu scholar stone in an unusual horizonal balanced form perched on a custom wood stand. The stone, in a nearly pure greyish white color, display a weathered smooth surface with visually arresting natural geological characters. The characteristic surface showcases and a large number of interlinked grottoes of various sizes. Known as Linglong Taihu, the grotto-punctuated surface form naturally, polished and eroded by running water on the bottom of Taihu Lake. This makes the piece particularly desirable by the seasoned collectors. The stone took a striking balanced tilted form, perching on a larger base and a smaller "foot". The exotic shape is open to the viewer's imagination. From different angles. the stone reveals itself differently in form and details. The horizontal carved wood base plays a critical role in supporting and balancing the rock as well as an aesthetically integral part of the overall design. The stone itself is about 16" high.
Stones such as this from Taihu Lake was among the four famous stones since ancient time in China. Perhaps one of the most popular stone types due to their exotic form and various colors, they have been collected and prized by Chinese scholars since Tang dynasty when using them in garden came in vogue. Later, smaller pieces like this one were displayed in the scholar's private study serving as a mini form of nature for meditation. In China, they are also known as Gongshi "worshipped stone" and in the west, sometimes known as Spirit Stone. With their exotic shape with and curious cavities and surface texture, these stones were highly appreciated as an inspiration to contain the nature in human's adobe.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	stone and wood
Condition:	Good. Natural stone with patina. Minor wear on the wood stand.
Creation Date:	19th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Abstract, Asian/Oriental, Geometric
Incollect Reference #:	797653

Dimensions

W.	24.5 in;	H.	22 in;	D.	8 in;
W.	62.23 cm;	H.	55.88 cm;	D.	20.32 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.