18TH-19TH CENTURY

Ruyi means “as one desires” and is often associated with expressions such as jixiang ruyi, meaning “may all your good fortunes be fulfilled.” Such ruyi scepters were traditionally commissioned by Qing emperors and officials to commemorate birthdays or presented as prestigious gifts.

The present pair is intricately carved with auspicious motifs and emblems, including bats, chimes, and paired fish, among others. Twin fish have appeared as a symbolic element in Chinese art from the Han dynasty to the present, representing double wealth and abundance. Their inclusion here on a pair of scepters further amplifies this wish two-fold.