Since it has two Zhuan characters of “Xuetang” on its bottom, it is also called “Xuetang ink stone”. Evidence shows that “Xuetang” was the study of Su Dongpo when he lived in Huangzhou. It was built on the snowy day; therefore it is called “Xuetang”. On the left and the right sides of the ink stone is the inscription showing the whole story of Su Dongpo buying this ink stone. The stone is gentle, soft and simple in style and it has a high value for practical use and for enjoyment.
    Su Shi took posts in Hangzhou twice. During his stay in Hangzhou, he often met with his friends from such places as Dongxiaogong, Jingshan and Anyin temple. They made poem and read poem together. Therefore, it is quite natural to find this ink stone here in Anyin temple.