Sceptre (ruyi), openwork carving of jade plaques with dragon ornaments

Chinese Collection

Accession Nr.: 1447
Type: jade; carving
Date of production:
18th–19th centuries
Qing dynasty
Place of production:
Acquisition: collection of Ferenc Hopp
Materials: jade; silk; wood
Techniques: carved
Dimensions: length: 46.3 cm
The sceptre (ruyi, “Let it be done as you wish”) is an ancient Chinese ceremonial object and mark of high status, which later became the symbol of good luck. Later form of the sceptre also known today is a highly stylised S-curve made of precious material but hardly resembling its origin.