Ruyi scepter in fungus shape
Maker
Chinese
Label TextScepters were ceremonial objects held along the arm to indicate one’s authority, but were also marks of elegance from the late 16th century onwards. Ming period ruyi were often of wood, naturalistically carved to resemble the lingzhi, a type of fungus believed able to confer immortality.
Object number60.27
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Pure Amusements: Wealth, Leisure, and Culture in Late Imperial China, Dec. 24, 2016 - May 15, 2022.Credit LineEugene Fuller Memorial Collection
DimensionsL.: 19 3/4 in.
MediumRoot
Object number: 68.134