There are no dents, chips or cracks to the edge. Tightly mounted in Gendaito fittings. This example is very well throughout as gnarled wood with fruit bearing vines. The noticeable curve may well have served as a brush rest. The head of the sceptor had become detached at some point due to shrinkage of the ivory and had been reglued - not terribly noticeable or objectionable.
Condition is otherwise very good with natural staining of the slightly loose grain from use.
We are dating it to the 18th century. This unusual scholar's object is carved in relief with a bodhisattva astride a Foo Lion and with a posing attendant in the foreground. The elite in Asian countries often aspired to following the teachings of the Buddha in retirement. This would be natural for a Chinese literati but the subject matter is scarce in scholar articles. Good condition and pleasant patina in and around the carved area.