Chinese Scholar's Rock

A lumpy grey knob arches over like a thoughtful elephant trunk.

This scholar's rock with hardwood stand is from Guangxi, China. It is huoshan stone & hard wood. These stones are usually displayed on carved hardwood bases, which lift the rock and set off its irregular, often pierced and weathered form. Chalky, porous rock with a swollen top that bows to one side, pocked with small cavities and ridges. It is mounted on a glossy dark brown base shaped like a rounded cushion, supported by four bulbous feet. It is 3.5 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 6 high.

Proof that a good pedestal makes anything look important.