Geneticist and breeders have long recognized that the offspring of two genetically distinct parents often exhibit superior traits when compared with either parent. Some of those improved traits include increased growth, greater size, greater resistance to disease and environmental stresses. Most of the fruits and vegetables lining the supermarket shelves are examples of genetic breeding displaying hybrid vigor. 

This Japanese seashore stone with its cleverly carved wood cap suggests an eggplant. When placed in a miniature shopping cart, the illusion of a giant eggplant comes to mind. This contemporary display serves as a reminder that centuries of plant breeding has provided the food to sustain a growing world population. 

The stone is 7 cm wide, 14 cm high, and 7 cm deep.