Gongshi
Limestone
Chinese
Ancient natural limestone
Taihu limestone comes from banks of Taihu Lake near the foot of Dongting mountain. This particular scholar's rock is a specimen of the un fiddled with Taihu stone. The rock's surface, weathered by the elements, bears a striking resemblance to a miniature mountain range, complete with crags.
Scholars rocks, or "gongshi", have been prized in China since the Tang dynasty for their ability to inspire creativity, contemplation.