This extraordinary Chinese scholar's stone is one of a small collection I have on offer (see last image for others). 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, particularly these believed to be inhabited by immortal beings or figures moistness or glossy surface The stone may be displayed on a rosewood pedestal that has been carved specifically for the stone. The stones are a traditional subject of Chinese paintings.