An important Chinese Imperial Qing Dynasty Qianlong period (1736-1795) carved zitan ruyi sceptre, the whole very finely carved in relief with sinuous five claw dragons (representative of the Emperor) on cloud carved head, the edge with Greek Key carving, the reverse with Imperial character marks and signed by the maker, 47.5cm
Footnote: Ruyi ('As you wish') sceptres have early links with Buddhism and may have originally been used as back-scratchers. They evolved into symbols of power or talisman to bestow good fortune and became favoured Imperial gifts. Emperor Qianlong was particularly fond of Ruyi and commissioned the Palace workshops to make them for his loyal officials as well as for his own collection. In this period Ruyi sceptres ranked top among officials' presents to the emperor and his family.
Estimate: Estimate £8000 - £12000
Sold For £130000