Inkstone with cloud design

Zha Sheng (1650–1707), from Haining in Zhejiang province, was a leading scholar, palace official, painter, and calligrapher. Upon gaining his doctorate (jinshi) in 1688, he was made vice supervisor of the household of the heir apparent. His inscription on the reverse side of this inkstone reads: The cloud’s root is like new skin, Growing day and night in the endless rain. What is this slice of stone? It is a congealed spot of ancient clouds. If it is touched by fragrant lampblack (ink) Essence of dew will sprinkle onto the brush tip. Using this brush to write the sage’s classics, All will be enriched the whole world wide.