English: Pair of ruyi scepters.
Left: China, 18th century, Qianlong period, 1736–1795, Qing dynasty. Cloisonné on brass. Decorated with brass inlays incorporating the seal-script character for longevity, together with auspicious images of fish and bats—homophones for the Chinese characters for abundance (yu) and happiness (fu) respectively—this scepter would have been an ideal gift for a birthday or New Year celebration. Bequest of Miss Mary Lewis, 1909-37.

Right: China, 19th century, Qing dynasty. Jade (nephrite) with incised decoration. Incised on the back of this scepter’s handle is a poem composed by the Qianlong emperor (ruled 1736–95) that highlights his appreciation for objects such as this, which he considered indispensable for a learned gentleman. Gift of Mrs. George S. G. Cavendish, 1961-225-1.