East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 19th century CE. A gorgeous framed and matted marble stone slice known as a dream stone or a Shih-hua of square form, boasting swirling hues of butterscotch, charcoal, light grey, black, and pearly white. Dream stones, such as this example, are said to be natural "paintings" featuring unique depictions of heavenly landscapes, seascapes, and mountain scenes with each native inclusion suggesting misty mountains, lofty peaks, spiraling clouds, or meandering riverbeds. A set of 3 lines of Chinese script on the right side perhaps provides a name for or a poetic description of the piece. Size (without frame): 15.5" W x 13.9" H (39.4 cm x 35.3 cm); (with frame): 20" W x 18.2" H (50.8 cm x 46.2 cm)

Cut from Dali marble found in the Cangshan mountains of western China and covered in a thin coat of wax, these stones were frequently hung in scholars' studios, perhaps serving the same function as Italian Renaissance studiolo paintings - an object of outward gaze that facilitates inward reflection and contemplation, an aesthetic exercise of the intellect. Being an object from the earth rather than a manmade painting, dream stones allow for a more natural lens through which one can ponder the inherent relationship of man, nature, and the cosmos. The art form of dream stones is centuries old and inherited from the Ming Dynasty. These celestial stones gained popularity in the 19th century when French collectors named these magnificent stone slabs "pierres de reve."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-Arts du Monde, New York, New York, USA, brought into the US prior to 2000

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#169032

Intact and excellent. Fit with modern paper matte and wood and glass frame. Nicks and some chipping to frame.