清十八世紀 白玉「靈芝壽桃」如意

deftly carved in openwork as a long branch of lingzhi issuing attendant sprigs and fungi, the arched shaft further wreathed by a spray of leafy bamboo and peach blossoms below a small bat grasping a stone chime in its mouth, the ruyi-shaped terminal carved in low relief with a leafy branch of fruiting and flowering peach within a raised curling border, all surmounted by a bat in openwork with outstretched wings, grasping in its mouth a ribboned shou medallion, the bottom of the shaft pierced to thread a tassel, the white translucent stone of warm milky tone accented with icy inclusions and a lustrous polish

The ruyi sceptre is overall in very good condition. The stone is exceptionally white and is very close to the catalogue illustration. There are very few veins - only on the back and hidden in the carving with no interruption to the design.
"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."