A fine Chinese bamboo ruyi sceptre 18th century

A fine Chinese bamboo ruyi sceptre 18th century, the head naturalistically carved from the rhizome, the stem showing the internal divisions of the plant, the wood with a warm, glowing patina, 38.5cm. The ruyi sceptre is a wish granting wand and amongst the most auspicious of Chinese symbols. Ruyi literally means 'as you wish' and implies perfect satisfaction. The head is usually shaped as a lingzhi fungus, an important symbol of longevity, and the sceptres are often decorated with further auspicious Buddhist symbols such as bats and peaches. Ruyi were customarily given to the emperor and empress on occasions such as birthdays, and also used as gifts among other members if the Qing court. Cf. L Tam, Chinese Bamboo Carving Part I, Hong Kong Museum of Art, pp. 364-369, for related examples.