suiseki (japanese scholars rock) - 1963

approximate size: length 30cm x depth 13cm x height 38cm

suiseki and daiza (wooden base) from 1963. part of the showa era (1926-1989). 

suiseki are a japanese version of the chinese scholar's rocks. they are naturally occurring rocks which are appreciated for their aesthetic or decorative value. they must be expressive stones and have a special shape, colour, and texture to be categorised as suiseki. they are not allowed to be reshapes. this stone is provided with a wooden base called a daiza. other suiseki may be placed in a waterproof bowl of bowl made of ceramic called suiban or bronze called a doban. suiseki are often used in combination with bonzai.