Sharjah24 – Reuters: A white jade ruyi sceptre, presented on Wednesday (September 29) in Hong Kong, is tipped to fetch up to $13 million when it heads to auction on October 13
The rare sceptre belonged to Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty 250 years ago and it's inscribed with a poem the Emperor composed to sing its praises, Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby’s Asia, told a media preview event.
Chow said it is considered to be the finest sceptre ever made for a Chinese emperor partly for its rare dragon carving and the poem inscription.
Sceptres have been great symbols of authority and power for royals throughout world history.
Ruyi sceptres, the Chinese decorative objects that symbolise good fortune, enjoyed a special status in Qing court culture, which had a wide range of uses as gifts, decoration, and tactile pieces to handle for enjoyment.
The precious ornament is expected to set a record sale.
Also on showcase was a pearl and diamond necklace from the early 19th century, named Queen Joséphine Necklace. The necklace once belonged to Queen Joséphine and was handed down by generations of the Swedish royal family, Sotheby's Auction House said.
It will be auctioned on October 12 in Hong Kong.
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