As early as the 12th century, the Chinese characterized the furnishings of a home as “elegant,” in the sense not only for beauty but also of convenience and comfort. This was a moral issue, because elegance created an ambiance responsive to the qi — the life force or spirit that flows through everything. Thus on the scholar’s deck, he set a spirit rock. He would have searched for this in the lakes where they were especially to be found, seeking out a rock that encapsulated the landscape. Large rocks were placed outside the window in an inner court, but this one sat close to him. The rock had experience of the earth, and brought it into the study. It is particularly inspirational, because it has holes through which air and light can stream, bringing the qi of the earth to the spirit of the scholar.
The above except is from the book Sister Wendy’s American Collection
