a large inscribed inkstone by Zhou Huichen, Qing dynasty, 18th / 19th century

of oval form, the recessed platform with an integral well carved in relief with a sage wearing a loosely fitted sarong sleeping on a rocky outcrop, with a fan in one hand and his staff and hat on a nearby ledge, seated beside an acolyte who sits in front of a basket of peaches while peering into a double-gourd, the reverse with a long inscription signed 'Zhou Huichen' (wood box)

The inscription on the stone discusses the origins and qualities of Duanstone, and is signed 'inscribed by Zhou Huichen of Jiangyou', followed by the seal Meiting ('Beautiful Pavilion').