Precious wood and jade. China, Qing 19th cent.
The ruyi is generally an honorary scepter with curved shaft, whose head is formed like a stylized long-life mushroom lingzhi. Ruyi means literally "what you wish" and is i.a. also ein symbol of Buddha, particularly in reference to the immortality of his teachings. In the head of this ruyi a baiyu (white jade) is set, which joins the long-life theme completely with its decorative relief - crane, pine, rocks, bamboo and long-life mushroom lingzhi. Effective design through the contrast of dark staining to the white jade. Light age characteristics, altogether very good condition.
LENGTH 35,5 CM, WIDTH JADE 7 CM
From a Roman collection
修木加玉雕如意。中國,清代,19世紀。長35.5釐米,玉寬7厘米。