16th/17th century|Modelled in the form of a five-peaked mountain, carved in relief with pine trees amidst rocky landscape, the reverse with three travelling scholars arriving at a thatched pavilion, the stone with cloudy and russet inclusions. 12.1cm (4 3/4in) wide|十六/十七世紀 青玉帶皮高士山水五峰筆擱The five peaks of the present lot represents the five sacred mountains of China which are arranged according to the five cardinal directions of Chinese geomancy. According to Chinese mythology, these five mountains originated from the body of Pangu, the first being and the creator of the world. Mount Tai in Shandong in the east is considered to have been formed out of Pangu's head; Mount Heng in Hunan is believed to be a remainder of Pangu's right arm; Mount Heng in Shanxi of his left arm, Mount Song of his belly, and Mount Hua of his feet.Compare with a related pale green and russet jade five-peaked brush rest, 16th century, but with a design of dragons, which was sold at Sotheby's London, 16 May 2012, lot 22.