Classified as a member of the Shou Shan family of stone, the hu-p'i-tung is another of the Chinese seal stones prized by collectors. Bold, stripe-like patterns, set in a yellow-brown stone resemble a tiger's coat, hence the appellation, hu-p'i-tung.
The hu-p'i-tung is not a true "tung". As mentioned in previous issues, one characteristic of tung is transparency. Unlike the more outstanding tungs such as the chicken blood stone or the t'ao-hua-tung, the hu-p'i is not transparent. However its distinctive patterns and fine texture have led collectors and experts to consider it a tung. The stone's colors are either black-grey or yellow-brown.
The commercial value of the hu-p'i-tung is lower than that of other tungs. Production of the stone is limited and demand for it is not as great as that of the other tung family stones. But collectors and stone experts both agree, the hu-p'i- tung is a valuable addition to any seal stone collection.
Li Ch'i-mao's collection of seal stones includes two pieces of hu-p'i- tung. Of the two, a piece called "shih-niu" bought on a buying foray to Japan clearly displays the bold, "tiger-stripe" pattern. Li says the dealer from whom he bought the stone thought it was worthless. Thus, he got it for a very low price.
In past months this series of articles has introduced the reader to seal stones and to the practical uses of the Chinese seal. This month we will briefly point out some important tips for selecting and buying stones.
According to experts, Chinese seal stones possess six qualities that comprise a "good" stone and three that will make up a "bad" stone. The six qualities are: one, the fineness of the stone (as opposed to roughness), two, its solidity, three, its gloss, four, its smoothness, five, its mildness (referring to luster), and six, its quality of crystal structure. The three things to watch out for are: one, roughness, two, poor crystal structure and three, brittleness.
While the average buyer may have difficulty discerning these characteristics, there are a few simple rules of thumb. The stone should be smooth to touch, firm but not brittle. Its color should be translucent and glossy like dew-drops, never piercing. Therefore when buying stones always remember to, look at it, ask questions, feel and rub the stone yourself.
One final word of caution--as seal stones are valuable, watch out for dealers who may use substitute stones in place of genuine ones.
(Gerald Hatherly)
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