Since the dawn of civilisation, sceptres have been potent symbols of power. Arguably the finest example ever made for a Chinese ruler, this white jade ‘ruyi’ sceptre was dedicated to and inscribed by the Qianlong Emperor, the most powerful man living on earth in the 18th century. Discover how the ascending imperial dragon pursues the flaming pearl of wisdom, which features words of praise for the masterful carving written by the emperor himself. From the De An Tang collection, the Qing Imperial

A true renaissance man, Emperor Qianlong was renowned for his passion for art, assembling some of the largest collections of the time. These exquisite works forged a relationship between the emperor and history and extended his presence into the future. Experience these revered objects in "Mirroring China’s Past: Emperors and Their Bronzes.” Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bank of China. | The Art Institute of Chicago