The color of this nephrite boulder gives it an antiquarian feel. The dark discoloration of the crust was used to depict the stem and needles of a sheltering pine tree. The reclusive scholar, seated under the tree, has sent one of his assistants to the stream and another assistant, depicted on the reverse, to fetch his scrolls. Their animal companions are a crane and a tortoise, both symbolic of longevity.

You ask me why I dwell in the green mountain;
I smile and make no reply for my heart is free of care.
As the peach blossoms flow down-stream and disappear into the unknown,
I have a world apart that is not among men.

early 18th century, Qing Dynasty, nephrite,
Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, MA, 11/29/19