Lot 226. A white jade 'floral' ruyi sceptre, Qianlong period (1736-1795); 15 5/8 in. (39.7 cm.) long. Estimate GBP 50,000 - GBP 80,000 (USD 65,350 - USD 104,560). © Christie's Images Ltd 2018.

The quatrefoil head of the sceptre is carved in shallow relief with prunus flowers growing from a gnarled branch and a further flower growing from rocks. The oval mid-section and the foliate tip of the sceptre are both carved with a medallion enclosing a flower growing from rocks. The stone is of a pale tone with some faux-russet highlights.. 

Note: The term ruyi is a homonym for 'as you wish', and these ceremonial sceptres have become synonymous with power and prestige, featured in imagery associated with deities, immortals, and nobility. Hence, ruyisceptres crafted from precious materials such as jades and prized woods were given as gifts to the Qing court. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, London, 6 November 2018