18世紀 沈香木八仙如意 A carved Chenxiangmu ruyi from the 18th century. The large ruyi is carved with the 8 Immortals with Shou residing in the head among pine trees. Exquisitely carved in varying levels of relief with a continuous scene depicting the eight Daoist Immortals, including Tie Guaili, He Xiangu, Han Zhongli, Zhang Guolao, Cao Guojiu, Lan Caihe, Lü Dongbin, and Han Xiangzi. The setting is detailed with large overhanging cloud, pine trees and jagged cliffs and rocky promontories. Chenxiangmu (eagleswood) ruyi scepters are rare objects for the scholar’s desk. They usually retain the natural form of the wood and are characteristically decorated with applied relief scenes pieced from smaller sections of wood as illustrated by the current ruyi. The three-dimensional composition of this ruyi is enhanced through the sophisticated use of high and low relief carving. The natural knots of the wood have been cleverly incorporated into the decoration, conveying a naturalistic rocky cascade. Dimensions are: 22 inches tall X 6 1/2 inches wide. All measurements are approximate. Condition: There is a repair on the back, and the wood is slightly cracked with age. Provenance: From a Las Vegas estate. A Chengxiangmu ruyi dating from the late 16th century was sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong April 3, 2018 lot 3429. A Chenxiangmu ruyi dating from the 19th century was sold at Sotheby's London May 11, 2016 lot 77. Click Here to View Additional High-Resolution Photos