Book excerpt: This work presents detailed commentary on the craftsmanship and motifs of the implements associated with the Chinese scholar's studio. These treasures - including brushes, inkstones, waterdroppers, toggles, figurines and scholar's rocks - embody the shared wisdom, traditions and values of the Chinese literati who governed China for more than two millennia. An understanding of the symbolism with which these objects are so artfully embellished is necessary for an understanding of classical Chinese civilization.