Ruyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of Longevity

Ruyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of Longevity

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

One translation of the Chinese term ruyi is "as you wish," and scepters in this shape were often given as gifts because of the good wishes they implied. Although they may have had certain ritual functions, scepters frequently appeared in displays, either placed on stands or in vases and brush pots alongside other functional and/or exotic goods. Ruyi scepters were made in a range of materials including metals, various types of wood, and ivory.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ruyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of LongevityRuyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of LongevityRuyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of LongevityRuyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of LongevityRuyi Scepter in the Shape of a Fungus of Longevity

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.