A fungus-shaped rock. That’s the first impression of the Blue Iris Stone. This unassuming boulder is more than meets the eye. It holds centuries of secrets. It’s a story of extravagance and superstition. A tale of an emperor’s desires and a mother’s wisdom.
The Blue Iris Stone is located in the Hall of Happiness in Longevity within Beijing’s Summer Palace. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty gave it this name. But it’s also known as the Baijia Stone. This translates to “Stone of the Wastrel.” This less flattering name hints at a troubled past.
The Blue Iris Stone’s journey began with Mi Wanzhong. He was a Ming Dynasty official. He was a talented painter and writer. Mi was also a passionate stone collector. He discovered the Blue Iris Stone in Beijing’s Fangshan District. He was captivated by its unique shape. He envisioned it gracing his garden. This garden was located near what is now Peking University.
Moving the massive stone proved a challenge. Mi used a technique from Great Wall construction. He cut a road and dug wells. In winter he had servants freeze the road. This created an icy path for the laborers to slide the stone. Alas Mi ran out of money. He abandoned the Blue Iris Stone in Liangxiang Town.
Years passed. The Blue Iris Stone stood alone. Then Emperor Qianlong discovered it. He wanted it in his Garden of Clear Ripples. This garden later became the Summer Palace. Moving the stone caused another hurdle. Qianlong’s mother opposed the move. She believed it brought bad luck. She feared it would curse the royal family.
Qianlong’s official Liu Yong offered a solution. He cleverly presented the stone as a lingzhi. This is a magical mushroom symbolizing longevity and prosperity. Placing it in the Hall of Happiness in Longevity would bless the dynasty. Qianlong’s mother agreed.
Emperor Qianlong had the more positive name engraved on the Blue Iris Stone. Now visitors come to admire this remarkable stone. The Blue Iris Stone stands quietly. It witnesses the ebb and flow of people throughout the years. The stone silently keeps its secrets. It remains a fascinating piece of Beijing’s history.