Scholar's Rock
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Scholar's Rock
About the Item
Gongshi are judged by evaluating four basic characteristics: shape, material, color and spirit. First, rocks should be naturally shaped. Although they may be enhanced by hand, it is not acceptable for them to move into the realm of manmade sculpture. Second, Gongshi should be hard in material and rich in texture. They should be composed of material which intimates they will endure. Thirdly, they should have a hue and lustre which is natural, simple and pure, oftentimes giving them a feeling of natural antiquity. And fourthly, Gongshi should be evocative, not benign. Although they may affect each person differently, they should have a “persona” evident to a focused observer.
Throughout history, Gongshi have been the subject of countless poems, stories and paintings. Some have even become venerated as deities and credited with their own consciousness and powers. Ancient Chinese believed Gongshi contained the basic life force – known as qi (chee) – and like people, underwent profound changes in the course of their development. Modern aficionados see earth as the ultimate artist. Yet, past or present, the appreciation of Gongshi has always been rooted in the aesthetics of form tempered by imagination; and this appreciation, often manifesting itself as reverence, gave rise to another interpretation of the word Gongshi – “fantastic rocks.”
This is a superb, engaging example of Gongshi.
- Dimensions:Height: 72 in (182.88 cm)Width: 26 in (66.04 cm)Depth: 16 in (40.64 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Indeterminate Age
- Condition:Superb. What one would expect from an authentic piece of this sort.
- Seller Location:Chicago, IL
- Reference Number:Seller: A0702-0161stDibs: 09112488113
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