Viewing Stones
The practice of setting stones on individual stands to represent legendary
sites associated with Buddhism originated more than 2,000 years ago in
China. The art migrated to Japan in the 6th century AD where it was refined,
and often combined with bonsai.
Suiseki is the Japanese term for viewing stones. It literally means "water
stone."
Traditionally, suiseki or viewing stones are exhibited on a carved wood base
called a diaza, or in a tray called a suiban. Sand, water, bonsai plants, or a
combination of them may accompany the stones.
Viewing stones are valued for their naturally weathered beauty, and the
images they represent. Shape, color, surface patterns, and place of origin
contribute to their value and appreciation.
Finding the stone, imagining its potential, then creating a setting - this is the
artistic process.
The stones in this exhibit belong to the private collections of members of The
Ameriseki Group, an affiliate of the Brandywine Bonsai Society.
Brandywine Bonsai Society is an educational organization and as a result, the material in this site may be copied for
educational purposes. If large portions are copied, we would appreciate attribution. We welcome links to this site.