The illustrative compositions of this panel are arranged i three successive stages.  In th lower stage, an oarsman steers a docking sailboat containing two passenger dressed in scholarly attire engaged in conversation.
The spatial and temporal distance is collapsed, imbuing this pictoria scene with the quality of transcendence.  Th boat quickly arrives at the dock that is represented by stairs leading to th arched entrance of a walled community.  Inside the community, which is depicted in the middle stage,
ornate pagoda-like structures and gardens rise above the walls that are bein protected by guards--one is captured in the position of drawing a bow and arrow. The face of a bearded man wearing a scholar cap can be seen through th window of a tiered structure.  Th upper stage of the panel appears to represent the heavenly realm of immortality. An energetic man riding a horse swings his arms high in the air graspin the reins of the horse in one hand and an emblem in the other. He is accompanied by an attendant to the rear holding an umbrella an another walking ahead carrying an offering. The panel is decorated with curled patterned borders representin foliage.     


Throughout Chinese history, stone panels were create to commemorate the passing of rites or events, often commissioned by wealth families and patrons.  Many of thes panels blended mythological Taoist ideas, Buddhist beliefs, and Confucia morality with events of actual life.  The provide rich historical data regarding the practice and belief system of an given period in China.