Reproduction of the world in miniature is a recurring theme in Chinese art. Representations of mountains in particular signified escape from China's highly ordered, bureaucratic society to the natural world. In Daoist thought, the mountains were also the home of the immortals, and so symbolized paradise and the attainment of everlasting life.
Such objects would be placed on a scholar's desk or in a cabinet, as objects of contemplation.J. Rawson (ed.), The British Museum book of Chi. London, The British Museum Press, 1992.
Post title: John Ruskin, Modern Painters, 1860.
2. Beryl and emerald miniature mountains. Qing Dynasty, 18th century.
