Important inkstone decorated with poems and seals, China, Qing dynasty, second half of the 19th century This yàn - 硯 (in Japanese suzuri) made from stone known as dragon tail stone (龙尾石) is engraved with Wang Yangming's eighteen reflections on reading. The inscription includes seals corresponding to phrases such as "sweep the ground and burn incense" and "read abundantly". From the inscription 湘林胡万木镌 - Xiāng Lín Hú Wànben (Wànmù) Juān, we can deduce that this inkstone was engraved by Hu Wanben (scholar's name: 湘林 - Xiāng Lín) in the late Qing dynasty. Hu, a native of Changsha, was an expert engraver. It is accompanied by a lid inlaid with jade decoration, a wooden box completes the set. Length: 24 cm; width: 14.7 cm; height: 8.5 cm Provenance: Former Japanese collection from Kyoto. "Wang Yangming's eighteen reflections on reading: strike the sound stone so that its nature resonates, untouched by dust. Engage with texts, seek verification, discuss and debate freely. Sing and recite with vivacity and spirit. Short naps regenerate energy, while long ones weigh down the senses. Contemplate the beauty of flowers, bamboo, mountains and rivers to nourish your inner disposition. Making tea can purify the heart. Composing poems broadens knowledge and lifts the spirit. Walking quietly doesn't make the mind dull or stagnant. Drinking wine to the point of intoxication naturally improves the state of being... Close your eyes in silent reflection. Practice writing frequently to sharpen the mind. Study calligraphy without laziness of hand or body. Read widely and deeply without getting lost in the texts, keeping your mind calm and your will steady. Sweep the floor and burn incense to purify the chest and clear the mind. Read aloud to avoid depleting your energy. Place a flower in a vase to inspire a refined heart. Cut down on outings to escape the hustle and bustle...".