Description :

Gongshi (Scholar’s Rocks) are naturally or artificially shaped stones highly valued in traditional Chinese art and culture. These rocks are often used for meditation, contemplation, and decoration, especially in classical Chinese gardens, scholar’s studios, and tea rooms.

In China, scholar and spirit stones known as Gongshi have been collected and admired for thousands of years. During the Tang dynasty (618-907AD), it was believed that no garden or studio could be considered beautiful without a collection of such stones. Unique stones were transported to other countries and offered as tribute and gifts to royalty and friends.

Suiseki (Sui=water, Seki=stone, also an abbreviation of san-sui-kei-jyo-seki, which means ‘landscape scene stone’) is the Japanese version of stone appreciation. These stones, formed and shaped by wind, water and time can take many different shapes and are reminiscent of nature, particularly mountains, ancient structures or animals.  

The art of Suiseki includes an elaborate classification system and the most beautiful specimen are exhibited in museums and organized competitions. Suiseki stones are traditionally displayed on beautiful wooden stands, called daizas, that are designed and carved specifically for each stone by master woodworkers.