A LARGE WHITE JADE RUYI SCEPTER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the ruyi-shaped head finely carved with a stylized shou character surrounded by leafy vines bearing flowers and double-gourds, the middle and end of the curved flattened stem similarly decorated with double-gourds on leafy vines, the triangular tip of the stem further enhanced with a bat and pierced with a bull-nose perforation to hold a tassel, the stone of very pale greenish-white with some opaque white inclusions; with qin-shaped wood stand, wood and glass display case, and a wood box (6)

Acquired in China in the 1950s, and thence by descent.

There is an opaque white inclusion beneath the ruyi head close to where it joins the stem. There is also a light brown inclusion on one side of the ruyi head. These inclusions are inherent in the stone, and the ruyi is in good overall condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Different sized gourds on vines symbolize different generations of the same family, and are used as a motif to express the wish that the family line continues endlessly with many generations. The shou character expresses the wish for longevity, and the Chinese name for bat, fu, is a homophone for the word blessings. Put together, the motifs on the scepter carry the wish for a long, happy and productive life, with an unending family line.