Sola & Asociados
Japan Suiseki, Korean Suseok and American Viewing Stones
History and Glossary
Although there is no precise written history of the use of rocks in scholar's studios, it is known that they have been in use as such for at least 3.000 years in China.
During the reign of Japan's Empress Regent Suiko (592-628), the Chinese Imperial Court first presented Scholar's Rocks to the Empress and her court as gifts. Reflecting the Chinese taste, these stones were vertical, fantastically shaped, with deep folds and hollows, pass-through holes, highly eroded surfaces, and convoluted forms. Stones of this type were popular in Japan for many centuries and were an important item of trade.
This early period of development in Japan saw these stones being appreciated for both their natural beauty and also for their religious and philosophical symbolism. For Buddhists, the stone symbolized Mount Shumi, a mythical holy mountain; for Taoists it represented Horai, the Taoist paradise. For believers in the Chinese philosopy of yin-yang, the stone set in water took on the symbolism of two opposing yet complementary forces of the universe. For Japanese Shintoists, beautiful or unusual stones, along with other elements in the natural environment such as the sun and unusual trees, were the abode of powerful spiritual forces or gods (kami). As such, these stones were living objects capable of growth with a soul or inner being that required respect.
Over the years since then, Japanese trends have turned toward stones that are more horizontal, with simpler lines that usually depict various forms of mountains or mountain ranges. Chinese Scholar Rocks have remained true to the original values of vertical stones with various highly eroded surfaces. Other stones are used in the making of penjing.
Current interest in Scholar's Rocks is being renewed by exhibitions of stones owned by such well known collectors as Francisco E. Sola (Argentina) Ian and Susan Wilson and Richard Rosenblum (EE.UU) . These exhibitions and their publicity have had a huge recent impact among rock collectors in the west. People who were previously unaware of this ancient art form have renewed interest in both the collecting and exhibiting of such rocks.
Scholar Rock Glossary
When first studying the art of another culture, with another language, one of the primary problems I have is understanding the new terms and their intended use. Although I continue to have difficulty at times, I always find that it is helpful to create a glossary to have as a reference. You will still find words used without any explanation or used so that they actually add to your confusion. But over time they will begin to clear up.
These are all terms I have found that relate to some aspect of Chinese Scholar's Rocks, also known as Spirit Rocks. These terms are listed alphabetically. Some Chinese terms will have more than one meaning. Similarly, there will sometimes be more than one Chinese term for an English word or meaning. These have been cross-referenced whenever noticed. For use of each term relating to stone classification in classification order, see the Scholar Rock Classification page.
Baoshi. Gemstones.
Bayinshi. Resonant rocks. (See Lingbi Rocks.)
Changhua [rocks or stones]. Rocks found at Changhua, Zhejiang Province. Soapstone.
Chou. Ugly, with a connotation of charm and distinction.
Dalishi. Marble.
Duanshi. Duan stones.
Fenglishi or Fonglishi. Stones found in the provinces of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia and the Gobi desert of Ganxu. These stones display the natural wearing action of the desert winds and sand. Usually light in color.
Gan. Dry (as in surface texture).
Gongshi. Scholar rock; miniature garden rock displayed and appreciated indoors.
Gu. Ancient, with elegance and appeal.
Guai. Unusual or strange, with the added and favorable connotation of interesting, wonderful and special. (See also qi and yi).
Guaishi. Fantastic rocks. Before the 20th century, used for both garden and studio rocks. (See also qishi and yishi).
Hongheshi. Red River rocks. Rocks found in the riverbed of the Red River, Guanxi province.
Huanglashi. Yellow Wax Rocks. Rocks found in Guangdong or Guangxi Provinces. Yellow wax rocks have surfaces that almost appear to be partially melted, or with a naturally polished surface resembling wax. Collected in riverbeds. Composition appears to be sandstone, jasper, or perhaps andesite with silica.
Jue. Matchless or peerless.
Juhuashi. Chrysanthemum stone.
Jui. Old.
Kongqushi. Malachite.
Kunshi. Rocks found in Kunshan, Jiangsu province. Created from siliceous liquid that filled the holes and fizzures of dolomite to form crystals.
Laoshan lushi. Laoshan green stones.
Lingbishi. Also called Lingshi. Rocks found in Lingbi, Anhui province. Black limestone; medium gray limestone that is highly eroded but without perforations; buff limestone; green limestone with peaks, grottos, stalactites and stalagmites. Many colors and types. most renowned are dark in color. Some have traces of red clay in bases. Often have resonance. Surfaces are grooved and channeled from erosian of slow-moving water. Original cave rocks are dark gray or black.
Lingshi. Rocks found in Lingbi, Anhui province.
Lou. Channels and other types of indentations.
Lusongshi. Turquoise.
Mingsheng qishi. Rocks collected as souvenirs of sacred mountains, famous geographical locations or historic places.
Muhuashi. Petrified wood.
Muhushi. Black ying rocks.
Penjing. Basin scene. Verticle stones used to depict mountains and set into a basin or tray. In China, many things can be added to these rocks to create other types of penjing. Often added are soil, sand, living trees, and miniature clay figures of people, houses, bridges, and boats.
Pingdan. Sparse or unassertive.
Pu. Natural, simplistic.
Qi. Unusual or strange, with the added and favorable connotation of interesting, wonderful and special. (See also guai and yi).
Qilian rocks or stones. Rocks found at Mount Qilian, Gansu Province. Black limestone.
Qingrun. Clear and moist. Considered to be the perfect degree of surface luster between glossy and matte.
Qingyue. Pure and surpassing.
Qishi. Fantastic rocks. Before the 20th century, used for both garden and studio rocks. (See also guaishi and yishi).
Qixiashi. Qixia stones.
Qixing. Fantastic shapes.
Run. Moist (as in surface texture).
Se. Color.
Shangshi. Admirable rocks. Rocks identified by qualities admirers saw in them.
Shankeng. Mountain deposits. Stones found in the mountains or at the base of mountains.
Shen. Spirit.
Sheng. Resonance.
Shih. Stone.
Shou. Thin, vertical and slender.
Shoushanshi. Rocks found at Shoushan, Fujian Province. Mottled yellow soapstone or golden silica in the form of quartz. Shoushan stones are divided into three catagories according to presumed source; field, water, or mountain deposits. They are often further divided based on color and internal markings.
Shuikeng. Water deposits. Stones found in lakes or rivers.
Taihu rocks or stones. Rocks found in Lake Tai, Jiangsu Province. White perforated limestone with significant erosion. Also black limestone. Wuxi, Zheijiang Province. Swiss cheese appearance with many holes. Limestone, but lighter in color than Lingbi or Ying Shih.
Tiankeng. Field deposits. Stones found in fields; areas between the mountains and the rivers or lakes.
Tou. Holes and Openness. Also refers to indentations that are not holes.
Wan. Stubborn.
Wanshi. Stubborn rocks. Rocks identified by qualities admirers saw in them.
Wen. Texture.
Wenfang yashi. Scholar's rocks or "elegant stones for the scholar's studio".
Wenya. Literary elegance; sparse elegance of the scholar's studio.
Wucai. Multi-colored.
Xing. Shape.
Xiu. Elegant, refined, polished.
Yantai. Inkstones.
Yashi. Elegant rocks. Rocks identified by qualities admirers saw in them.
Yi. Unusual or strange, with the added and favorable connotation of interesting, wonderful and special. (See also guai and qi).
Yingde rocks or stones. Rocks found in Yingde, Guangdong Province. Black limestone perforated with peaks and grottos; dark gray Ying limestone. Ying shih rocks; dark gray limestone, grooved or channeled and striated. Distinctive surface dimpled and pock-marked.
Yishi. Fantastic rocks. Before the 20th century, used for both garden and studio rocks. (See also guaishi and qishi).
Yu. Jade.
Yuanlin lifeng. Garden Rocks or "upright peaks for the garden".
Yung river stones. Stones found in Yung river, Hunan Province. Most noted for Chrysanthemum stones.
Zhauqing rocks or stones. Rocks found at Zhauqing, Guangdong Province. Off-white limestone with multiple perforations.
Zhi. Material.
Zhou. Wrinkles, deep furrows, relief ridges or intaglio lines.
Zhuo. Clumsy.
Zibowen rocks. Wen rocks found in Zibo, Shandong province. Composed of lime, granite. Aragonite forms are usuallly black and very hard.
Appreciation of this art was accelerated in the United States by Japanese Masters such as John Naka on the West Coast and Yuji Yoshimura on the East Coast. Both of these men wrote books that gave interested persons a basis for collection and display of Suiseki. Mr. Yoshimura`s book, written with Mr. Vincent Covello, is considered by many to be the definitive English language work on these stones. Other masters such as Melba Tucker, Jim Greaves, Frank English, Bill Valivanis, Felix Rivera and Jim Hayes learned and grew from these teachings and added new dimensions to the art.
More recently, interest has also increased in the types of stones and rocks venerated by Chinese literati. Scholarly treatises and catalogues of the "Spirit Rock" collection owned by Ian & Susan Wilson, and the "Scholar Rock" collection of Richard Rosenblum have re-ignited the imaginations of many Americans and people around the world to the endless possibilities of these natural wonders.
In South America, in Argentina Francisco E. Sola created news styles and take traditions from the ancients andeans indians.
The book, The Spirit of Gongshi, by Kemin Hu significantly added dimensions to this art by displaying ancient rocks from various collections throughout China and the rest of the world.
Viewing Stones encompass each of these arts. Suiseki in Japan, and Scholar`s Rocks in China, are separate art forms distinctive to those countries and cultures. Viewing Stones include those arts and add types of stones found in neither. The art of Viewing Stones includes stones and rocks from around the world, from a multitude of cultures and environmental extremes. Currently there are no boundaries or specific guidelines to say what is or is not a Viewing Stone. In general, many enthusiasts use the basic criteria for Suiseki and try to add variants for the new stones they collect. However, in practice this will only go so far, and then new categories will have to be added. Such is the case with the marvelous stones found in the desert by Melba Tucker and others. Some collectors advocate simply adding another category called "Desert Stones". Others prefer to incorporate these stones into the existing Suiseki categories with "desert stones" only including those that absolutely do not fit any existing categories. At present it is simply a matter of personal preference. However, the information in Viewing Stone Classification on this site can be used as a starting point for anyone interested in this art.
Suseok History
Due to this Chinese influence, most prized and collected stones during this period were upright stones that contained perforations and grooves on their surface. This preference continued during the middle period of Korean history from 1300-1950.
Recent Suseok history has been deeply influenced by Japan. Additionally, cultural changes in Korea during this time caused collectors to turn from traditional stone preferences to more "subdued" stones such as those revered by the Japanese. Although there was a significant increase in Suseok collecting in Korea after the Korean war (1950-1953), the closing of many prime collecting areas in recent years has caused the number of collectors to again decrease. Dr. Byung Ju Lee estimates that there were about a million collectors in Korea only 5 years ago but this number is going down.
The major difference between Korean and Japanese stones is that Koreans do not allow any alteration to their Suseok. Japanese also minimize any alteration to their stones but they do allow a leveling cut on the bottom of the stone to facilitate display. Korean collectors prefer to retain the purity of their stones, and accommodate these uneven bottoms on their stones by displaying them in deep suban (ceramic containers filled with sand or water) or by carving the daezwa or zwadae (carved wood display stands) more deeply to hide more of the stone.
Korean wood stands are also distinct. They are often thinner and contain flowing lines that merge into the feet of the stand. This is perhaps a modern phenomenom.
There are several collecting sites in Korea that are especially well-known or famous with suseok collectors.
- Kyunghokaang. This river comes from a small stream that brings stones from Zirisan, a mountain famous for its suseok.
- Namhankaang. The Namhan river is the most important and famous collecting site in Korea. All shapes of stones can be found there. Many have good texture, and it is possible to find many shapes in a single stone. Most notable are stones with depressions, furrows, tunnels, arches and peaks.
- Seasides. Korean coastlines have many places where collecting suseok is possible. The southeastern coast of the Korean Peninsula is the most popular.
- Taewhakang. The Taewha river is notable for its green-colored stones.
- Yungkaang. The Yung river is another famous site.
Zirisan. Ziri Mountain. A mountain famous for its suseok.
Classification
(Chinese Viewing Stones)
You will notice that I often use the words "viewing stone" and "scholar rock" interchangeably. The reason for this is simple, the Chinese Scholar's Rocks are quickly becoming part of American Viewing Stones. Many of us have grown up using "suiseki" as the only term for such stones. Japanese suiseki criteria formed the basis for defining good and bad characteristics of our stones. As interest in the aesthetics of viewing stones increases in the West, many are now looking at scholar rocks as an adjunct to more traditional "suiseki" criteria.
Whichever name you use, one of the key aspects of viewing stones is the suggestability of the stones. True suiseki, scholar's rocks, penjing, sosuk, or viewing stones should "suggest" something to the viewer, not be a precise miniature representation of the object.
Scholar's Rocks are classified by the place of their origin. Such rocks are either from that specific area or are "similar" to rocks found in that area.
Lingbishi - Lingbi, Anhui province. Black limestone; medium gray limestone highly eroded but without perforations; buff limestone; green limestone with peaks, grottos, stalctites and stalagmites. Many colors and types. Most renowned are dark in color. Some have traces of red clay in bases. Often have resonance. Surfaces are grooved and channeled from erosion of slow-moving water. Original cave rocks are dark gray or black.
Taihushi - Lake Tai, Jiangsu province. White perforated limestone with significant erosion. Also black limestone. Wuxi, Zheijiang province. Swiss cheese appearance with many holes, limstone but lighter in color than Lingbi or Ying Shih.
Yingshi or Yingdeshi - Yingde, Guangdong province. Black limestone perforated with peaks and grottos; dark gray Ying limestone. Ying-shih rocks; dark gray limestone, grooved or channeled and striated. Distinctive surface dimpled and pock-marked.
Qilianshi - Mount Qilian, Gansu province. Black limestone.
Zhauqingshi - Zhauqing, Guangdong province. Off-white limestone with multiple perforations.
Shoushanshi - Shoushan, Fujian province. Mottled yellow soapstone or golden silica in the form of quartz. Shoushan stones are divided into three catagories according to presumed source; field, water, or maountain deposits. They are often further divided based on color and internal markings.
Changhuashi - Changhua, Zheijiang province. Soapstone.
Huanglashi - Guangdong or Guangxi province. Yellow wax stone with surface that almost appears to be partially melted, or with naturally polished surface resembling wax. Collected in riverbeds. Possibly jasper.
Hongheshi - Guangxi province. Quartz stones found in the Red River, Guanxi province
Muhuashi - Zhejiang province. Petrified wood found in many locations. It is very hard and often retains the appearance of the original wood.
Juhuashi - Yung river, Hunan province. Chrysanthemum stones.
Kongqushi - Malachite.
Lusongshi - Turquoise.
Duanshi - duan stones.
Shoushanshi - Soapstones.
Dalishi - Marble.
Qixiashi - Qixia stones.
Xuanshi - Xuan stones.
The first Penjing and Gongshi were presented to Japan's Empress Regent Suiko by the Chinese imperial court between 592-628. These first rocks were extremely interesting to the Japanese court and aristocracy. They were fantastically shaped, with holes, hollows and highly eroded surfaces. They were vertical stones, representative of the imposing mountains and cliffs of China. These stones remained popular in Japan for hundreds of years.
During the latter part of the Kamakura period (1183-1333) the Samurai warrior class rose to power in Japan. The active trade between China and Japan had brought the teachings of Zen Buddhism, that had won wide acceptance with the samurai. Zen Buddhism emphasized austerity, meditation and intuitive insight achieved through this practised discipline. In keeping with this philosophy, stones with more subtle lines became highly sought.
The Zen monks emphasized this preference further during the Muramachi period (1338-1573) by seeking stones that were stripped to their essential elements without distracting details. Over time this lead to preferences for stones that were suggestive rather than precise representations of natural landscape features such as mountains. These stones became a means to spiritual refinement, inner awareness, and enlightenment. The tastes of the Zen monks strongly influenced the Japanese ruling class.
The Edo period (1603-1867) saw a rise of wealthy merchants who also became interested in suiseki and began competing with the aristocracy for these stones. This was also a period of intense isolation for Japan, when they closed their borders to outsiders. However this same "isolation" allowed Japanese arts to flourish without outside influence.
In some ways the art stagnated during the latter part of the nineteenth century (Meiji period 1868-1912) due to a decrease in wealth of the nobility and the samurai. However, in other ways it grew. It was during this period that classifications of suiseki were first developed.
During the latter half of the twentieth century interest in suiseki renewed, grew and expanded into the international community where it has continued to receive increasing interest. Today there are suiseki clubs and associations throughout the world.
One of the primary problems I had when first getting into suiseki was understanding the terms and their intended use. I would often find a Japanese word without any explanation or used so that I actually became more confused. Over time it all began to clear up (although there are still instances where I see the words used in unusual ways) and I thought a glossary would be of use to other suiseki enthusiasts. I hope it does help.
These terms are listed alphabetically. Some Japanese terms will have more than one meaning. Similarly, there will sometimes be more than one Japanese term for an English word or meaning. These have been cross-referenced for easy use. However, when names use both suffixes for stone or rock (seki or ishi) with no other differences, they are shown together.
For use of each term relating to stone classification in classification order, see the Suiseki Classification page.
Stone appreciation
Amagata-ishi. Rain-pattern stones.
Amayadori. Rain-shelter stones. Stone with an overhang that would offer a traveler refuge from the rain. (See Yadori).
Ao-ishi. Blue stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Araiso-ishi. Reef stones. Rough stones suggesting a jagged reef or shoal.
Aware. An intense nostalgic sadness brought on by a situation, memory or feeling. In Japan, aware is connected with autumn and the vanishing of the world.
Baika-seki. Japanese plum-blossom-pattern stones.
Beitenmoyo. Stone surface covered by small bumps the size of rice grains.
Biseki. Beautiful stone. One that has been polished or carved to enhance its natural beauty. Not generally considered to be a true suiseki.
Chusho-seki. Abstract-pattern stones.
Dai. Stand, rack or rest used to display suiseki.
Daiza. Form-fitting stand or base made for the display of a specific suiseki.
Dan-seki/Dan-ishi. Plateau stones. Plateau stones suggest a terraced hillside or a series of flat steps rising toward a cliff. A classical stone would have at least three steps, which would vary in length. The rise between each step should be vertical or nearly vertical.
Doban. Shallow metal tray (usually bronze) without holes in the bottom. Used to display suiseki, and normally filled with sand or water.
Dobutsu-seki. Animal-shaped stones. Any stone which resembles a real or mythical animal would fall into this category.
Doha-seki/Doha-ishi. Slope or plains stones. These stones suggest the rolling hills of a plain or a slope gently rising toward a hill.
Dokutsu-ishi. Cave stones. The hollows and cavities in these stones resemble caves, caverns or grottos. The cave is ideally suggested by a deep and dark cavity, the end of which cannot be seen. The most admired cave stones are those where the cave slants sharply to the left or the right.
Domon-ishi. Tunnel stones. The hole or holes in these stones suggest a pass-through tunnel or natural arch. Traditionally, the tunnel passes completely through the stone and it is prefered that they veer to the left or right rather than simply going straight through the stone.
Enzan-seki. Distant mountain stones. (See Toyama-ishi). Noted more for the silhouette than the details of the stone.
Funagata-ishi. Boat-shaped stones. These stones resemble different types of boats, including wooden sailing ships, rowboats, and houseboats.
Furuya-ishi. Stones found in and around Furuya, Japan.
Ganzan-seki. Mountain stone with strong rock-like or craggy features.
Gensho-seki. Celestial-pattern stones.
Goshiki-ishi/Goshiki-seki. Five-color stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Hadame. Heavy texture or "skin" of a suiseki; surface eroded by water.
Hagata-ishi. Leaf-pattern stones.
Hanagata-ishi. Flower-pattern stones.
Hashi-ishi. Bridge-shaped stones As the name suggests, these stones resemble a stone or wooden bridge.
Hidari-katte. A left-flowing suiseki. (See Katte).
Higata-ishi. Sun-pattern stones.
Hirasu-ishi. Sandbar stones. Smooth stones suggesting a sandbar or quiet beach.
Hoshigata-ishi. Star-pattern stones.
Hyojun suiseki. A medium suiseki of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) in size. Considered to be the standard . (See Ogata, Kogata, and Mame).
Ibigawa-ishi. Stones found in and around the Ibigawa river.
Iro. Color.
Ishi. Stone or rock.
Isogata-ishi. Shore stones. Such stones are usually shallow and suggest a rocky shoreline. There are two primary subcategories.
Itodaki-ishi. Thread-waterfall stones. Suggested by a thin line of quartz-like material running down the front of the stone.
Itogaki-ishi. Tangled-net-pattern stones. Stones with quartz or light mineral inclusions that resemble tangled fishing nets. (See Itomaki and Itokaki-ishi).
Itokaki-ishi. Tangled-net-pattern stones. Stones with quartz or light mineral inclusions that resemble tangled fishing nets. (See Itogaki and Itomaki-ishi).
Itomaki-ishi. Tangled-net-pattern stones. Stones with quartz or light mineral inclusions that resemble tangled fishing nets. (See Itogaki and Itokaki-ishi).
Iwagata-ishi. Coastal rock stones. These stones suggest a high, wind-swept rocky coastline; a tall, roughly shaped offshore rock; or a steep cliff at the end of a peninsula. Stones with white mineral deposits at their base are especially prized, since these markings suggest waves breaking against the cliffs.
Jagure. Snake-pattern stones. Refers to stones that have sinuous paterns or indentations similar to patterns snakes make in sand or soft dirt.
Jiban. A flat board for displaying suiseki (or bonsai). (See jiita).
Jiita. A flat board for displaying suiseki (or bonsai). (See jiban).
Jimbutsu-seki. Human-shaped stones. Most popular subjects for these stones include fishermen, farmers, maidens, Buddha, and Buddhist monks. Stones that suggest parts of the human body are also included in this grouping. (See Sugata-ishi ).
Kaiseki. As used during the Edo Period (1603-1867), referred to stones with strange and dramatic shapes; scholars? rocks.
Kako-seki. Processed stones with bottoms cut or worked to make them easier to place in a suiban or daiza.
Kamogawa-ishi. Stones found in the Kamogawa river.
Kamuikotan-seki/Kamuikotan-ishi. Stones found in and around Kamuikotan, Japan.
Karedaki-ishi. Dry waterfall stones. These are stones that have definite markings that suggest a waterfall that has dried up.
Kaseki. Fossil stone or petrified rock. Valued for their inclusions or the fact that they were once living and are now stone.
Katachi. Shape.
Katte. Implied directional flow of a suiseki as determined by its prominent features. A right-flowing suiseki is called migi-katte; a left-flowing stone is a hidari-katte.
Kawa dojo. The "classroom of the river": studying the riverbed develops the artistic sensitivity and taste that will lead to the discovery of quality stones.
Kawa-ishi. Stones collected in and around rivers.
Kawazure. Smooth texture (as caused by water over time).
Keiryu-seki. Mountain stream suiseki.
Keisho-seki. Object stones. Stones in this category resemble objects closely associated with nature. The finest stones do not exactly copy the object, but suggest it through a few subtle lines and forms. There are eight traditional categories under this heading.
Keiryu-seki. Mountain-stream stones. The suggestion of a mountain stream appears as though running through a gorge or valley. The effect is enhanced if there is a white mineral vein running along where the stream would be. Such stones are most ideal if the stream runs diagonally across the stone, rather than from front to back.
Kibune-ishi. Stones found in and around Kibune, Japan.
Kigata-ishi. Plant-pattern stones.
Kikka-seki. Chrysanthemum-pattern stones. (See Kikumon-seki and Kiku-ishi).
Kikumon-seki. Chrysanthemum-pattern stones. (See Kikka-seki and Kiku-ishi).
Kiku-ishi. Chrysanthemum-pattern stones. (See Kikumon-seki and Kikka-seki).
Kinko-seki. Yellow-red stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Kinzan-seki. Near-view maintain stones with detailed texture.
Kogata suiseki. A small suiseki of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) in size. (See Ogata, Hyojun, and Mame).
Ko-ishi. Arch stone.
Koho-seki. Single-peak mountain stones.
Koshoku. Aged quality of stone?s surface; related to yoseki and mochikomi.
Kotaki-ishi. Small waterfall stone.
Kurama-ishi. Stones found in and around Kurama, Japan.
Kuro-ishi. Black stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Kusagata-ishi. Grass-pattern stones.
Kuzuya-ishi. Thatched-hut stones Thatched-hut stones form an especially category within this group.
Ideally the stone has an overhanging rounded or triangular roof and an eroded or recessed center. Thatched -hut stones with pillars holding up the roof tend to be highly valued.
Maguro-ishi. Jet-black stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification. (Also Makuro-ishi).
Mame suiseki. A miniature suiseki of less than 6 inches (15 cm) in size. (See Ogata, Hyojun, and Kogata).
Meiseki. Exceptional suiseki; a masterpiece.
Migata-ishi. Fruit-pattern stones.
Mikaeshi. The back side of a suiseki.
Mikiri. The transition between a high and low point on a suiseki.
Mitsuki. The front of a suiseki.
Mizutamari-ishi. Waterpool or lake stones. These stones have depressions that suggest mountain pools or ponds. Porous stone that do not allow the pool portion of the stone to be filled with water are not prized. The most highly prized pool stones are those with the pool encircled by one or more well-formed mountains.
Mochikomi. The process of aging a stone by letting it weather and watering it on a daily basis. (See Yoseki).
Mon-seki. Pattern stones. (See Monyo-seki).
Monyo-seki. Pattern stones: suiseki having plant, weather and other patterns. Also known as Mon-seki.
Murasaki-ishi. Purple stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Mushigata-ishi. Insect-shaped stones. Most popular subjects within this category would be butterflies, dragonflies, crickets and grasshoppers.
Nachiguro-ishi. Stones found in and around Nachiguro, Japan.
Nashijihada. Numerous dots or spots on a suiseki?s surface, like those on a Japanese pear.
Nettai-seki. Tropical stones.
Neodani-ishi. Stones found in and around Neodani, Japan.
Nunodaki-ishi. Sheet-waterfall stones. These have broader lines of light-colored material coming down the front side of the stone.
Ogata suiseki. A large suiseki of 24 inches (60 cm) or more in size. (See Hyojun, Kogata, and Mame).
Ogon-seki. Golden-yellow stones. One type of Japanese stone classification identifies stones by their color rather than shape. Usually used in conjunction with one or more other type of classification.
Otaki-ishi. Large waterfall suiseki.
Raiko-seki. Lightening-pattern stones.
Rempo-seki. Multiple peak mountain stones.
Renzan-seki. Mountain range stones.
Ryugan. Dark lines on a light background on a suiseki.
Sabaku-ishi. Desert stones.
Sado akadama-ishi. Distinctive red stones found in and around Sado, Japan.
Sampo-seki. Triple-peak mountain stones.
Sansui kei-seki. Scenic landscape stones. A major category of Suiseki. Stones in this category suggest natural aspects of nature. (See Sansui keijo-seki).
Sansui keijo-seki. Scenic landscape stones. A major category of Suiseki. Stones in this category suggest natural aspects of nature. (See Sansui kei-seki).
Sajigawa-ishi. Stones found in the Sajigawa river.
Seigaku-seki. Stones found in and around Seigaku, Japan.
Seki. Stone.
Setagawa-ishi. Stones found in the Setagawa river.
Shimagata-ishi. Island stones. As the name implies, these stones resemble an island rising out of the water. They are traditionally low in height and ideally have features that suggest coves or inlets. These stones are normally displayed in a suiban or doban filled with sand or water to enhance the island image of the stone.
Shimagata-toyama-ishi. Distant island view stones.
Shin-seki. Newly collected or "young" stones.
Shizen-seki. A natural stone that has not been altered in any way other than cleaning.
Shun. Heavy wrinkles, creases and furrows on a suiseki.
Soho-seki. Double-peak mountain stones.
Sudachi. Pit-mark-pattern stones.
Sugata-ishi. Human-shaped stones. Most popular subjects for these stones include fishermen, farmers, maidens, Buddha, and Buddhist monks. Stones that suggest parts of the human body are also included in this grouping. (See Jimbutsu-seki).
Sui. Water.
Suiban. Shallow ceramic tray without holes in the bottom. Used to display suiseki, often filled with sand or water.
Suiseki. Ancient Asian art form consisting of natural rocks and their display stands. Any of a number of stones appreciated for their own beauty and what they suggest to the viewer. Often in the form of a mountain or ancient man-made object or animal. Originally stones unaltered in any way except for cleaning.
Suwari. Stability in a suiseki. How well it fits into its base and includes the "appearance" of being stable and well-balanced.
Taki-ishi. Waterfall stones. Such stones resemble a mountain with one or more waterfalls. The waterfall is suggested by a streak of quartz, calcite or other white mineral emanating from near the top of the stone and coming down the front. If the waterfall appears on both sides of the stone it is usually not considered a good stone.
Taku. A stand for display of a suiseki (or bonsai).
Tencho-seki. Summit suiseki.
Tenko-seki. Weather-pattern stones.
Tennen Kiseki. Classification category from Meiji Period (1868-1912). Stones that resemble natural objects such as mountains, valleys, humans, and animals.
Tenseki. Classification category from Meiji Period (1868-1921). Stones meant to accompany a bonsai arrangement. The stones may represent seasonal themes unique to bonsai; winter, spring, blossoms, and so on. Tora-ishi. Tiger-stripe-pattern stones.
Torigata-ishi. Bird-shaped stones. This group of stones resemble real and mythcal birds.
Toyama-ishi. Distant mountain stones. (See Enzan-seki). Noted more for the stones suggestive silhouette rather than details.
Tsukigata-ishi. Moon-pattern stones.
Uogata-ishi. Fish-shaped stones. Although all fish belong in this category, koi and goldfish are especially prized by collectors.
Yadori. Shelter stones. The concave shape of these stones suggest a shallow shelter or temporary refuge formed by an overhanging cliff. To be classified as a shelter stone, the floor of the shelter should be at least partly visible. (See Amayadori).
Yagata-ishi. House-shaped stones. These stones suggest various types of rustic houses.
Yamagata-ishi. Mountain stones. These stones resemble a single mountain or several mountains. Although distant and near-view mountain stones are the most important sub classification, mountains may also be identified by the number of peaks.
Yama-ishi. A suiseki collected in the mountains.
Yoseki. Nurturing a stone. Watering and rubbing a stone to give it an aged and appreciated appearance.
Yukigata-ishi. Snow-pattern stones.
Yurai-seki. Historical stones. Stones that have been owned by important people or that have important histories.
Zokei-seki. Modeled stones. Stones that have had certain features worked to enhance their shape. For example, a mountain peak or a thatched hut stone. Not generally considered to be a true suiseki.
Classification
(Japanese Viewing Stones)
I often use the words "viewing stone" and "suiseki" interchangeably. The reason for this is simply because the Japanese art of Suiseki is the cornerstone for Western Viewing Stones. In essence, many of us have grown up using suiseki as the only term for such stones. Japanese suiseki criteria formed the basis for defining good and bad characteristics of our stones. Suiseki are also the international language for viewing stones - the terms are used throughout the world.
Whichever name you use, the key aspect for each of these art forms is the suggestability of the stones. True suiseki or viewing stones should "suggest" something to the viewer, not be a precise miniature representation of the object.
In their book, The Japanese Art of Stone Appreciation; Suiseki and Its Use with Bonsai, Dr. Covello and Mr. Yoshimura discuss the classical systems of grouping suiseki. In these systems stones are grouped by shape, color, surface pattern, or place of origin. Some Japanese collectors use only one of these systems, while others use a combination of several. Personally, I always like to know where stones originate in the hope that I can one day visit that area and search for my own.
I use their systems as the basis for the research I have done to determine the various acknowledged types of stones.
Additionally, I have found other types of stones or subclassifications in Melba L. Tucker's Suiseki & Viewing Stones, An American Perspective, and in Waiting to be Discovered, the North American Viewing Stone Society's quarterly publication, edited by Jim Hayes. In a few instances I have also created a subclassification to describe a specific unique stone (e.g., sankeishi-seki).
dai (stand, rack or rest)
daiza (form fitting stand or base)
doban (shallow metal, usually bronze, tray without holes in the bottom)
gata (shape or shaped)
ishi (stone)
jiita (thin hardwood boards placed under suiseki (or bonsai) for display)
kei (scenery)
san (mountain)
seki (stone)
sui (water)
suiban (shallow ceramic tray without holes in the bottom)
When stones are classified by shape, there are two primary sub-classifications. Stones may be scenic landscape stones (natural aspects of landscape) or they may be object stones (living and man-made creations).
Sansui kei-seki/Sansui keijo-seki (Scenic landscape stones). Stones in this category suggest natural landscape scenes that we would find in nature.
- Yamagata-ishi (Mountain stones). These stones may resemble a single mountain or several mountains. Although distant and near-view mountain stones are the most important sub classification, mountains may also be identified in other ways such as by the number of peaks.
-- Toyama-ishi/Enzan-seki (Distant mountain stones). Resemble mountains as viewed from a great distance.
-- Kinzan-seki (Near-view maintain stones). These appear as mountains viewed up close.
-- Koho-seki (Single-peak stones). Mountains with only one peak.
-- Soho-seki (Double-peak stones). Appear as two mountains, or a single mountain with two peaks.
-- Sampo-seki (Triple-peak stones). Mountains with three separate peaks.
-- Rempo-seki (Mountain range stones). These stones represent a range of mountains rather than a single mountain with one or more separate peaks.
-- Seigaku-seki (Rugged Mountain stone). These are mountain stones which have features that make them look exceedingly rugged.
-- Sekkei-ishi (Snow-covered mountain stone). Mountain stones that have snow like minerals at the peak(s) or on their sides.
- Taki-ishi (Waterfall stones). These stones resemble a mountain with one or more waterfalls. The waterfall is suggested by a streak of white mineral emanating from near the top of the stone and coming down the front. If the waterfall appears on both sides of the stone it is usually not considered a good stone. There are several specific types of waterfalls that are recognized.
-- Itodaki-ishi (Thread-waterfall stones). Suggested by a thin line of quartz-like material running down the front of the stone.
-- Nunodaki-ishi (Sheet-waterfall stones). These have broader lines of light-colored material coming down the front side of the stone.
-- Karedaki-ishi (Dry waterfall stones). These are stones that have definite markings that suggest a waterfall that has dried up.
-- Yamagata-taki-ishi (Mountain waterfall stones). Such stones meet the basic requirements of Mountain stones with the added feature of one or more waterfalls appearing on their front surfaces.
-- Keiryu-seki (Mountain-stream stones). The suggestion of a mountain stream appears as though running through a gorge or valley. The effect is enhanced if there is a white mineral vein running along where the stream would be. Such stones are most ideal if the stream runs diagonally across the stone, rather than from front to back.
- Dan-seki/Dan-ishi (Plateau stones). Plateau stones suggest a terraced hillside or a series of flat steps rising toward a cliff. A classical stone would have at least three steps, which would vary in length. The rise between each step should be vertical or nearly vertical.
- Shimagata-ishi (Island stones). As the name implies, these stones resemble an island rising out of the water. They are traditionally low in height and ideally have features that suggest coves or inlets. These stones are normally displayed in a suiban or doban filled with sand or water to enhance the island image of the stone.
- Doha-seki/Doha-ishi (Slope stones). These stones suggest the rolling hills of a plain or a slope gently rising toward a hill.
- Isogata-ishi (Shore stones). Such stones are usually shallow and suggest a rocky shoreline. There are two primary subcategories.
-- Araiso/Araiso-ishi (Reef stones). Rough stones suggesting a jagged reef or shoal.
-- Hirasu/Hirasu-ishi (Sandbar stones). Smooth stones suggesting a sandbar or quiet beach.
- Misaki-ishi (Cape stones)
- Mizutamari-ishi (Waterpool stones). These stones have depressions that suggest mountain pools or ponds. Porous stone that do not allow the pool portion of the stone to be filled with water are not prized. The most highly prized pool stones are those with the pool encircled by one or more well-formed mountains.
- Tamari-ishi (Pool or Lake stones). These are similar to waterpool stones except the depressions suggest lakes or deeper pools than the shallower waterpools.
- Mizutame-ishi (Waterpuddle stones). Similar to waterpool stones, these have very shallow depressions that hold water.
- Iwagata-ishi (Coastal rock stones). These stones suggest a high, wind-swept rocky coastline; a tall, roughly shaped offshore rock; or a steep cliff at the end of a peninsula. Stones with white mineral deposits at their base are especially prized, since these markings suggest waves breaking against the cliffs.
- Dokutsu-ishi (Cave stones). The hollows and cavities in these stones resemble caves, caverns or grottos. The cave is ideally suggested by a deep and dark cavity, the end of which cannot be seen. The most admired cave stones are those where the cave slants sharply to the left or the right.
- Yadori-ishi (Shelter stones). The concave shape of these stones suggest a shallow shelter or temporary refuge formed by an overhanging cliff. To be classified as a shelter stone, the floor of the shelter should be at least partly visible.
- Amayadori-ishi (Rain-shelter stones). These are essentially the same as shelter stones except that you can more easily imagine the shelter protecting from rain.
- Domon-ishi (Tunnel stones). The hole or holes in these stones suggest a pass-through tunnel or natural arch. Traditionally, the tunnel passes completely through the stone.
Keisho-seki (Object stones). Stones in this category resemble objects closely associated with nature. The finest stones do not exactly copy the object, but suggest it through a few subtle lines and forms. There are eight traditional categories under this heading.
- Yagata-ishi (House-shaped stones). These stones suggest various types of rustic houses. The emphasis here is on "rustic". A stone that resembles a typical American home, although potentially interesting, would not be regarded as a suiseki. Or certainly not one of value.
-- Kuzuya-ishi (Thatched-hut stones). Thatched-hut stones form an especially important category within this group. Ideally the stone has an overhanging rounded or triangular roof and an eroded or recessed center. If the stone appears to have pillars holding up the roof, it is normally more valued.
- Funagata-ishi (Boat-shaped stones). These stones resemble different types of boats, including wooden sailing ships, rowboats, and houseboats.
- Hashi-ishi (Bridge-shaped stones). As the name suggests, these stones resemble a stone or wooden bridge.
- Dobutsu-seki (Animal-shaped stones). Any stone which resembles an animal would fall into this category.
- Torigata-ishi (Bird-shaped stones). This group of stones resemble real and mythcal birds.
- Mushigata-ishi (Insect-shaped stones). Most popular subjects within this category would be butterflies, dragonflies, crickets and grasshoppers.
- Uogata-ishi (Fish-shaped stones). Although all fish belong in this category, koi and goldfish are especially prized by collectors.
- Sugata-ishi/Jimbutsu-seki (Human-shaped stones). The most popular subjects for these stones include fishermen, farmers, maidens, Buddha, and Buddhist monks. Stones that suggest parts of the human body are also included in this grouping.
- Sankeishi-seki (Three objects stones). These stones suggest three different objects when viewed from different angles.
CLASSIFICATION BY COLOR
In this system suiseki are classified by their color. They are set aside from other suiseki by their deep, subdued, and excellent color. The stone is appreciated both for its color and what the color suggests (dawn, dusk, night, spring, sunsets). Color stones (Shikisai-seki) must still remain aesthetic and suggestive.
Kuro-ishi (Black stones)
Maguro-ishi (Jet-black stones)
Aka-ishi (Red stones)
Ao-ishi (Blue stones)
Murasaki-ishi (Purple stones)
Ogon-seki (Golden-yellow stones)
Kinko-seki (Yellow-red stones)
Goshiki-ishi/Goshiki-seki (Five-color stones). Traditionally these stones are a mixture of red, yellow, and green together with either gray, blue, purple, white or black.
CLASSIFICATION BY SURFACE PATTERN
In this system suiseki are classified by their surface patterns. Pattern stones (Mon'yo-seki; sometimes Mon-seki) are set aside from other suiseki by the striking surface patterns formed by the stone's textures, colors, lines, embedded minerals, and other features. Japanese collectors have traditionally preferred patterns closely associated with nature.
-Kigata-ishi (Plant-pattern stones). Literally, tree-pattern stones. The surface patterns on these stones resemble a tree, plant or parts of a plant.
--Mori-ishi (Forest-pattern stones). These have surface patterns that resemble numerous trees, as a forest.
--Bonsai-pattern stones (Bonsai-ishi). These stones have a surface pattern that resembles a bonsai tree and pot.
--Hanagata-ishi (Flower-pattern stones). Patterns on these stones suggest types of flowers. Two categories of Flower-patterns are especially prized in Japan.
---Kikumon-seki/Kikka-seki/Kiku-ishi (Chrysanthemum-pattern stones). The patterns on these stones suggest the radial design of the chrysanthemum flower. Such stones are highly regarded by both American and Japanese collectors. The chrysanthemum is a traditional Oriental symbol of immortality.
---Baika-seki (Japanese plum-blossom-pattern stones). These stones have patterns that resemble Japanese plum blossoms.
---Nobara-ishi (Wild rose-pattern stones). These stones have surface patterns that suggest wild roses.
--Migata-ishi (Fruit-pattern stones). The surface patterns on these stones suggest different types of fruit.
--Hagata-ishi (Leaf-pattern stones). The surface patterns of these stones suggest different types of tree or flower foliage.
--Kusagata-ishi (Grass-pattern stones). These have patterns that suggest different types of grasses, including bamboo and pampas grass.
Gensho-seki (Celestial-pattern stones) These stones suggest different objects in the day or night sky.
Tsukigata-ishi (Moon-pattern stones). These stones have inclusions or embedded minerals which resemble the moon.
Higata-ishi (Sun-pattern stones). These have markings or embedded minerals which remind one of some aspect of the sun; setting, rising, or fully displayed.
Hoshigata-ishi (Star-pattern stones). The surface patters of these stones remind one of stars in the sky.
Tenko-seki (Weather-pattern stones). Stones in this subcategory remind one of various weather related phenomenon. The three identified below are the most common, but others are possible.
Amagata-ishi (Rain-pattern stones). These stones have inclusions or patterns that remind one of driving rain, usually coming down at an angle.
Yukigata-ishi (Snow-pattern stones). Stones in this group resemble various patterns of snow falling.
Raiko-seki (Lightening-pattern stones). Usually dark stones with white mineral deposits that resemble lightning bolts striking across the sky.
Chusho-seki (Abstract-pattern stones). Although patterns in this category are abstract, they often suggest a subject closely associated with nature.
Tori-ishi (Tiger-stripe-pattern stones). Stones with alternating strips of color, suggesting the stripes of a tiger.
Itomaki-ishi/Itogaki-ishi (Tangled-net-pattern stones). The crisscrossing lines on the surface of these stones often suggest a tangled fishing net.
Sudachi (Pit-mark-pattern stones). These stones are pockmarked with tiny pits or depressions. The pit looks as if they were formed by small needles or by the action of particles of sand grinding into the stone.
Jagure (Snake-pattern stones). These stones have curving and winding patterns on the surface that suggest the writhing movements of a snake.
Moniri-ishi (Embedded stones). These stones have abstract patterns embedded in their surface that are pleasing but do not suggest specific objects.
CLASSIFICATION BY PLACE OF ORIGIN
Nearly all Japanese collectors, and a growing number of western collectors, classify suiseki by their place of origin; moreover some Japanese collectors and books use only this system.
Locations in Japan that are especially famous as suiseki collecting sites.
Kamogawa-ishi (Kamogawa river stones). Jet black Distant mountain or Slope stones found in the Kamogawa river in Kyoto prefecture.
Kurama-ishi (Kurama stones). Brown granite Island, Distant mountain, or Object stones found around the Kamogawa river, Kyoto prefecture. Also gray or brown limestone Tangled-net pattern stones.
Kibune-ishi (Kibune stones). Dark gray or reddish-purple Mountain, Waterfall, or Mountain-stream stones found around the Kamgawa river.
Setagawa-ishi (Setagawa river stones). Black Mountain, Slope or Tiger-stripe pattern stones from around the Setagawa river in Shiga and Kyoto prefectures. Nachiguro-ishi (Nachiguro stones). Jet-black Mountain or Plateau stones from the mountains of Mie prefecture.
Kamuikotan-seki/Kamuikotan-ishi (Kamuikotan stones). Black or blue-green Mountain, Slope, or Plateau stones from the rivers and streams of Hokkaido prefecture.
Sado akadama-ishi (Sado red stones). Red Mountain or Island stones from the mountains of Niigata prefecture.
Ibigawa-ishi (Ibigawa river stones)Black, bluish-black, or gray Coastal, Island, Waterpool, Shelter, or Waterfall stones from the rivers and streams of Gifu prefecture.
Sajigawa-ishi (Sajigawa river stones).Black, bluish-black, or gray Coastal, Island, Waterpool, Shelter, or Waterfall stones from the rivers and streams of Tottori prefecture.
Furuya-ishi (Furuya stones). Black or gray-black Mountain, Waterfall, Mountain-stream, or Coastal stones from the mountains of Wakayama prefecture.
Seigaku-seki (Seigaku stones). Black or gray-black Mountain, Waterfall, Mountain-stream, or Coastal stones from the mountains of Shizuoka prefecture.
Neodani-ishi (Neodani stones). Several stone types including Chrysanthemum-pattern stones of Gifu prefecture. Some locations in the United States especially famous as suiseki collecting sites.
Sabaku-ishi (Desert stones)
Mojave Desert stones, California, USA
Murphys stones, Murphys California, USA Some locations in Italy especially famous as suiseki collecting sites. Ligurian stones, Ligurian Alps, Italy. Hard limestone. Similar geological composition to Furuya-ishi. In Italian such stones are referred to as 'Palombini' because of their blue-gray color similar to a pigeon (palombo).
NOTE: As a side note, viewing stones are called 'living stones' (le pietre vive) in Italy. - Marco Favero
Suiseki labeling. According to Covello and Yoshimura, most Japanese collectors of suiseki label their stones using one or more of the classification systems already described. Rarely are all four systems used. When more than one system is used, labeling is done in the following order:
Surface
Pattern
Color
Shape
A poetic name is often included after the last classification name.
Suiseki collectors in other countries generally assign less importance to the stone's place of origin, and often list classificatory names in the following order: shape, color, surface pattern, place of origin, and poetic name. My observations of suiseki exhibitions indicate that most American suiseki simply use shape or surface pattern as the classification, sometimes adding place of origin. Few American suiseki have poetic names, however the number are growing. That is essentially what I use: poetic name (if any), shape or surface pattern (in both English and Japanese), and place of origin. When describing a picture of a suiseki I also add; dimensions of the stone, mineral composition when known, wood source of dai, and who carved the dai.
In addition to the classificatory terms already noted, Dr. Covello and Mr. Yoshimura provided four specialized terms used by Japanese collectors. These identify enhanced stones and suiseki of particular significance.
Biseki (lit., beautiful stone): These are not considered true suiseki. However, due to their rarity and beauty, they are displayed in the same manner as suiseki and are often shown together with suiseki at exhibitions. Biseki are stones that have been polished to enhance their natural beauty or color, or carved to bring out a particular feature such as an embedded flower pattern. Biseki do not need to have a suggestive shape.
Meiseki (lit., famous stone): These are the most perfect stones in one category or another. Such stones are famous because of their outstanding qualities and beauty, and are extremely rare.
Yuraiseki (lit., historical stone): This term refers to Suiseki or biseki that have been owned by famous historical persons or that are associated with notable historical events.
Reiheki (lit., steep cliff spirit): Stones with sharp vertical lines, highly eroded surfaces, convoluted forms, and pass-through holes.
