Lot 1106. A rare lingbi ‘waterfall’ scholar’s rock, 16th-17th century. Estimate USD 25,000 - USD 30,000. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2016

The dark grey stone has white veining that suggests cascading waterfalls seen on both sides, and a figure with outstretched arms walking on a path on one side.9 ¼ in. (23.5 cm.) wide, original tieli wood stand.

Literature : Marcus Flacks, Contemplating Rocks, London, 2012, pp. 6, 56 and 117-21.

Notes:Rocks of this type are prized by scholars as they are a connection to the real world. The sensitive use of the white veining in the stone creates a very naturalistic mountain landscape that includes a series of waterfalls that plunge from the peaks to the base on both sides. From above one can see a hole that could be a secret ‘high mountain’ lake, its clear waters reflecting the sky.

Christie's. The Flacks Family Collection: A Very Personal Selection, 16 September 2016, New York, Rockefeller Plaza