Busacca Gallery

Stone, chinese scholars rock, bonsai stone stand. They have been collected by scholars since ancient times. Scholars Rock - Museum Quality bronze stand, they have been collected anddisplayed in China for centuries. The Chinese literati displayed in the rarefied atmosphere of their studios’. The Chinese scholar drew inspiration from the natural world; he did not go out into nature to paint or compose poetry, he worked within the seclusion of his studio and used these ‘representations of mountains’ as inspiration for his creative work. ‘Like a landscape painting, the rock represented a microcosm of the universe on which the scholar could meditate within the confines of his studio or garden. ‘Although most scholar’s rocks suggest mountain landscapes, these abstract forms may recall a variety of images to the viewer, such as dragons, phoenixes, blossoming plants and even human figures.’ A few of the mountainscapes may recall specific peaks but most represent imaginary mountains such as the isles of the immortals believed to rise in the eastern sea. However, more than anything it was the abstract qualities that appealed to the Chinese literati, an idea that resonates with the modern collector who will see parallels with the avant-garde forms of Brancusi, Moore and Giacometti.

Chinese scholar stones, also known as "Scholar's rocks" or "Scholar's stones," have a long history in Chinese culture dating back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279). They were traditionally collected by scholars, poets, and artists as objects of contemplation and inspiration. The stones were valued for their unique shapes, textures, and natural patinas, which were believed to represent the beauty and power of nature. They were often placed in gardens, courtyards, and studios as a symbol of refinement and cultivation. The practice of collecting and appreciating scholar stones continues to this day, and they remain a popular subject in Chinese art and literature.

Gōngshí), also known as scholar stones or viewing stones, are naturally occurring or shaped rocks which are traditionally appreciated by Chinese scholars.



Scholars' rocks can be any color, and contrasting colors are not uncommon. The size of the stone can also be quite varied: scholars' rocks can weigh either hundreds of pounds or less than one pound. The term also identifies stones which are placed in traditional Chinese gardens.



The aesthetics of a scholar's rock is based on subtleties of color, shape, markings, surface, and sound. Prized qualities include:



Awkward or overhanging asymmetry. resonance or ringing when struck. representation or resemblance to mountainous landscapes or figure. texture. moistness or glossy surface. The stone may be displayed on a pedestal that has been carved specifically for the stone. The stones are a traditional subject of Chinese paintings.