Lin Youlin. 1623. A quality modern 2003 reproduction of the original four-volume book in two volumes, soft covers with traditional string bindIng. In a boxed case. ISBN: 7-80568-794-3/J. In Chinese. In fine condition.

This is a modern reproduction of a 401-year-old book. It is one of the most influential books ever written on viewing stone appreciation. While this work was not the earliest volume solely on appreciating stone for their aesthetic qualities, it was the first illustrated book published. The Suyuan Shipu or Plain Garden Stone Catalog consisted of four volumes with 249 illustrations and text of 102 kinds of stones. The author, Lin Youlin (1578-1647), wrote this work in 1623 while serving as governor of Long'an province (now the northern part of Sichuan province). Lin Youlin was an elegant, gracious gentleman with good manners and a keen interest in viewing stones, calligraphy, and painting.