White jade archer's ring, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A white jade archer's ring (板指) with inscriptions. On the outside is a long Qianlong poem engraved: "金陵一超 / 忽玉烛几 还周露积 / 吴台草 风 / 入郢门楸。 林虛宿断 雾磴险挂 / 悬流拾青 /非汉策化 / 缁类秦裘。 牵迹犹多 / 蹇劳生未 / 寡尤独此 / 他乡梦空 / 山明月秋 / 乾隆御题" along with two seals. It is in very good condition.

This type of ring is placed on the pulling finger which is the thumb of the right hand to hook the string when archery. Over time they have become more decorative than functional. During the Qing dynasty they became very popular, especially during the Qianlong reign, because the emperors enjoyed making the fingers ring. Following their wishes, princes, ministers and even local officials donated rings to the court. Other jade jewellery for men included pendants and belts. 

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980.

Size: 3 x 3.5 cm; Weight: 46 g