The Bones of the Earth: Scholars’ Rocks and the Natural World in Chinese Culture

Selections from the Robert Turvene Collection

Exhibition Website

Apr 21 2017 - Aug 13 2017

In Chinese philosophy and ancient legend, Scholars’ rocks were viewed as “the bones of the earth”. Since the Song dynasty (960–1279), these natural sculptures have been regarded as artifacts of the sacred relationship between man and nature and described in folklore as otherworldly. Collectors of these stones use them for contemplation and inspiration. The selections on view at the Muscarelle Museum of Art are part of larger group and promised gift from the Collection of Robert Turvene (W&M ’53) and are comprised of every revered type including Lingbi, Ying, Taihu, Mohu, Nine Dragon, Kun, Meng and Three Gorges.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website

  • Asian
  • Chinese

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