Set of inking-stones, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

Carved mineral inking stone "松花砚" (Songhua). The outer box is made of the same stone and contains a collection of six inking-stones of different shapes. They show patina from age and use and a restoration on one side. On the lid of the box are three carved characters '三希堂' (Sān xī táng), the name of the study hall of the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing dynasty. On the back of each piece are different imperial texts engraved and stamped, and some are signed "乾隆御銘" (Qiánlóng yù míng) and stamped.

The material for making Songhua stones is mined from Changbai Mountain in the Jilin area. They are mainly used to make this precious writing utensil. The Ming and Qing emperors loved them as an imperial treasure for their characteristics, texture, colour, long life and fineness. The Kangxi emperor called them the 'imperial inking stone'.

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Box size: 33.2 x 6.5 x 31.8 cm; Total weight: 14,002 kg