Chinese Taihu Scholar Stone on Display Stand

A vertical Taihu scholar stone in a wonderful grotto form perched on a custom wood stand. The stone, in a nearly pure grey color, displays a weathered surface with visually arresting natural geological characters, showcasing a large grotto in the center. A small orifice forms in the wall of the grotto adding a small visual delight. The surface is punctuated by sharp scattered folding lines that create wrinkles and folds contrasting the otherwise smooth texture polished and eroded by the water in the lake for millennium. The crackle lines are all natural and stable features of the stone that have withstood the test of time. The tension of the geological formation versus chronicle aqua erosion is beautifully displayed on this rock.
The stone stands balanced on a carved wood base. Although appearing quiet, its poetic and open shape draws the attention of the viewer right away. 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.