Ruyi Scepter
Original Language Title雕漆如意 清代
CultureChinese
DateQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MediumLacquer on wood with fiber
DimensionsOverall: 3 1/4 × 16 3/8 × 5 1/2 inches (8.26 × 41.59 × 13.97 cm)
Credit LineGift of Ray and Ruth Luhnow
Object number2012.9.2
On View
Not on viewCollections
DescriptionCinnabar red lacquer ruyi (“wish fulfilling”) scepter is in the form of an S-curve with large ogival head, and thickened mid- and end-sections. The lacquer has been built up in layers and then carved in high relief with images of Daoist immortals. On the head panel an immortal accompanied by two boy servants holding the fungus of immortality walks in a landscape; in the middle panel an immortal carries the fungus and is accompanied by a servant carrying a peach; in the lower panel the immortal carries the peach; the intervening sections decorated with butterflies, melons, and plum blossoms.Gallery Label
There are many gods of fortune, some of which were historical or mythical figures. For example, the print on the left shows the legendary warrior, Guandi. This red-faced hero came to be god of wealth because of his association with merchants. Below him are two gods, each of whom holds a gold bar or a ruyi scepter, symbols of wealth and recognition. The print on the right shows a fortune god and his wife with the same attributes. Despite their differences, all of these deities can grant the wish for increasing wealth, as signified in the treasure urn in the lower section of each print.
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