A BOXWOOD 'LINGZHI' RUYI QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

naturalistically carved in openwork with entwined branches of lingzhi, the main gnarled stalk culminating in a large fungus curling over to form the head of the sceptre, another branch issuing from the base with five more fungi and a large leaf with curly edges, the leaf inscribed in regular script with a poetic inscription, zi ran sheng huan xi zu ru shi ju fu de duo, another poem carved on the back of the main stem, followed by a seal reading gumin

Apart from some minor surface dents, light stains and fine age cracks, the overall condition is very good.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The shorter inscription on the leaf can read:

         zi ran sheng huan xi zu ru shi ju fu de duo
         Follow the nature/natural way,
         Happiness happens in this way, 
         Fortune and virtue will be abundant.         

The ruyi sceptre is itself a symbol of longevity, and the presence of a lingzhi form reinforces this auspicious meaning. The lingzhi fungus, believed to have magical powers, is a type of fungi known as Ganoderme Lucidum named after its lobed appearance. In China, it has been used as medicine for thousands of years. The present sceptre is a particularly fine example, light in weight and naturalistic in its modelling. For comparable examples see a wood sceptre sold in these rooms, 10th April 2006, lot 1656, of similar dimensions; and another sold in our New York rooms, 19th March 2007, lot 650, also of closely related size but lacking any inscription.