Old Stump and Broad-leaved Plant

Note the woodgrain impressions in various directions that are revealed on the rock surfaces in each print. This result is achieved from printing with multiple blocks. The wood textures, along with dark and light gray contrasts, contribute to the sculptural quality of the rock. As in painting, a seal is pressed on the image after the printing, leaving an oily residue of cinnabar ink smudged into the surrounding area. The seals identify these prints as part of the literati culture.

In Chinese gardens, rocks function as sculptures, much the same as those in Western gardens. For literati connoisseurs, rocks not only represented miniature mountains but also symbolized the earth's energy. Collectors especially appreciated rocks with sharp, rugged contours and curious holes that resulted from erosion. Many samples are illustrated here.