Ritual Mace from the Yongle Imperial Gift

What it is

This gilded ritual mace was part of a set of ceremonial weapons used in Tibetan Buddhist tantric rituals. It was presented in 1407 by the Yongle Emperor to a high-ranking Tibetan monastic patriarch who visited his court. The mace is now held by the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Why it matters

Ceremonial weapons like this mace were used symbolically in rituals meant to overcome spiritual obstacles such as ignorance and uncontrolled passions. The gift set, which also included an axe, knife, incense burner, and a sculpture, shows the close political and religious ties the Yongle Emperor built with Tibetan Buddhist leaders, using fine imperial craftsmanship as diplomatic gifts.

Look closer

• What does the detailed lion-head decoration suggest about the skill of imperial workshops?
• Why might an emperor use religious gifts to build relationships with foreign religious leaders?
• What does this object tell us about the connections between Ming China and Tibet?