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Chinese Tortoiseshell Ruyi Sceptre
- This magnificent ruyi sceptre is fashioned from intricately carved tortoiseshell
- The piece is a stunning example of Chinese artistry from the Jiaqing Period
- Carved with delicate open-work the sceptre depicts cranes flying amongst detailed foliage
- Ruyi sceptres were imbued with talismanic properties and were given as important gifts
- Get complete item description here
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The Chinese word, "Ruyi" means 'as you wish' and ruyi sceptres were imbued with talismanic properties. . .
The Chinese word, "Ruyi" means 'as you wish' and ruyi sceptres were imbued with talismanic properties and were given as important gifts to bestow good fortune. The shape and symbolism of ruyi sceptres developed over time and historians suggest that the form had its origins in back scratchers used by deities of the Buddhist pantheon. By the Tang Dynasty period (618-907) these functional items had evolved into items that were both ornamental and auspicious.
The form of the ruyi was adopted by the Daoists and it became associated with the fungus (lingzhi) which was symbolic of longevity and was converted into a secular good luck charm. The Yongzheng Emperor revived the auspicious tradition when he commissioned examples made from precious and other materials. The Qianlong Emperor extended the use and symbolism when he presented ruyi sceptres to courtiers to mark New Year celebrations and imperial birthdays.
Circa 1800
17 1/2" length x 4" wide
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | China |
| Type: | Figurines/Statuettes |
| Depth: | 4.0 in. (10.16 cm) |
| Length: | 17.5 in. |
| Width: | 4.0 in. (10.16 cm) |
| Height: | 17.5 in. (44.45 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
