Description features:Shoushan stones come from the area around the city Fuzhou in Fujian Province. Shoushan
Stones are one of the three famous stones of China used in Chinese art. The
stones are known for their fine texture, multi-color hues and carve ability. There
is an ancient legend that explains the origin of the stones; in ancient times
a five-colored Phoenix stopped at Shoushan Mountain, within the protection of
the mountains she laid many eggs and these multicolored eggs became the origins
of the famous Shoushan stones. There were more than 130 types of Shoushan Stones on record, but many can no longer
be found. There are 50 to 60 kinds of Shoushan Stones used for art at present.
The market for quality Shoushan stones is very active and the competition to acquire
high quality stones is evidenced rapidly appreciating value of both raw and
finished products. Shoushan stone carvings have been found among the funerary objects dating back to
the Southern Dynasty. During the Tang Dynasty there was a variety of locally produced
Asian Art using Shoushan stone, such as small images of Buddha, incense burners
and prayer beads. Stone workshops in the Song Dynasty carved Shoushan stone
into ancient figurines. In the Ming and Qing Dynasty, after being carved and
polished, Shoushan stone was turned into splendid seals that scholars collected
to sign documents and authenticate their Chinese art works. Some seals were carved
into animals, protruding flowers and plants, insects and fish and side scenes.
Among these superb craftsmen were Yang Ji of the Late Ming Dynasty and Zhou Bin
of the Early Qing Dynasty. These stone carvings undergo elaborate designing and processing. Generally speaking,
the stone carving begins with determining the natural nature of the stone being
carved. The Chinese artists cannot force the stone to be something it is not
and the ability to work with the natural quality of the stones sets these artists
apart. The carving theme is based upon the shape, the texture, the grain, the
color and hue of the object. Next outlines are made for carving spots on this raw
stone. Then they make the cuts and shapes of the semi-finished product. The stone
is finally turned into a handicraft through refining, polishing and waxing.
The unique quality of Shoushan Stones, the impeccable skill and creativity of the
Chinese artists contribute to the growing popularity of Shoushan Stones. The superior
craftsmanship singles out the superb quality of Shoushan Stones and this
blend of Chinese art and nature has contributed to the rising value of Shoushan
Stones as a collectible. Agalmatolite