Scholar's rocks, also known as gongshi, are naturally shaped stones that are highly valued in Chinese culture. These rocks are often characterized by their unique forms, textures, and colors, which can resemble mountains, animals, or abstract shapes. They are typically displayed in gardens or homes as a form of art and are appreciated for their aesthetic qualities. The appreciation of scholar's rocks dates back to the Tang dynasty and has continued through the centuries. Collectors and scholars often seek these stones for their beauty and the philosophical ideas they represent, such as the connection between nature and human creativity.