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Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Inkstone
Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
© Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami. All rights reserved.

Inkstone

Artist/Maker (Artist Unknown)
Date19th century
Mediumduan stone
DimensionsOverall: 7/8 x 8 1/4 x 5 3/4 in. (2.2 x 21 x 14.6 cm)
ClassificationsTools and Equipment
Credit LineGift of Brian A. Dursum
Terms
    Object number2009.29.2
    On View
    Not on view
    Collections
    DescriptionThis particular stone is made from the most revered of ink stone material – duan stone. This stone was quarried near Shaoxing and was particularly sought after for its surface texture, which was believed to lend a distinctive quality to the ink. It depicts a shallow pool with aquatic creatures, including the crab, fish, and turtle. The Chinese word for crab (xie) is a homophone of the word (xie), designating those who passed the metropolitan examinations, which was the first step toward official rank. The Chinese word for fish (yu) is a homophone of the word (yu), which means surplus or excess as it relates to wealth. The combination of these three animals probably forms the rebus: “May you successfully pass the metropolitan examinations, gain office, fortune and enjoy a long life.” It is likely that this ink stone was presented as a gift from a close friend.
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