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The Chinese term ‘gongshi’ refers to scholar's rocks or viewing stones. These naturally occurring geological formations are admired for their aesthetic qualities and often resemble mountains, cliffs, or other landscape features on a smaller scale. Gongshi have been highly valued in Chinese culture since the late Tang dynasty (618-907), particularly among scholars, poets, and artists. They are prized for their unique shapes, textures, and colors, and are collected and displayed as objects of contemplation, meditation, and inspiration. Gongshi are seen as miniature embodiments of the natural world, inviting viewers to reflect on the beauty and transience of life.

The appreciation of gongshi is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy and aesthetics; for example, in the concept of shanshui (mountain-water) painting, which seeks to capture the harmony and balance of nature. In traditional Chinese gardens, gongshi are often placed in carefully curated settings where they can be viewed from different angles and in a variety of lighting conditions. The stones are also used in meditation gardens, where they serve as a locus of reflection and introspection. Gongshi continue to be appreciated and collected by enthusiasts worldwide, and their influence can be found in various forms of art and design, including painting, sculpture, and landscape architecture.