The ruyi sceptre, due to the auspicious meaning of its name (‘as you wish’), evolved in the Qing dynasty into a lavish decorative furnishing, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune within the household. This ruyi is made of gilt copper, decorated with intricate filigree and enamel work, and inlaid with three jadeite panels, a material highly prized during the Qing dynasty. According to the attached yellow label, this ruyi was presented to the court in 1897 by Prince Gong, the uncle of Emperor Guangxu (Zaitian).
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铜镀金累丝嵌翠石三镶如意
Gilt-Copper Filigree Ruyi Sceptre with Filigree and
Jadeite Inlay
Total length: 64 cm; width: 16 cm; height: 17 cm;
tassel length: 68 cm
Copper, gold, jadeite
tassel length: 68 cm
Copper, gold, jadeite