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Front view of the framed Chinese feng shui ruler standing on a stone tile floor between a turquoise vase and a brick fireplace

Side angle of the framed Lu Ban ruler showing reflections on the glass front, a brass coal scuttle on the hearth behind

Framed Chinese ruler leaning beside a fireplace next to a turquoise glazed vase holding white blossom branches

Close detail of the Lu Ban ruler showing columns of engraved Chinese characters arranged in a grid, framed by the gold key fret mat

Framed Chinese Lu Ban ruler with engraved characters, set in a shadowbox with a cream mat and gold key fret border inside a fluted dark and gilt frame

Angled view of the framed feng shui ruler leaning against a travertine table, an open art book resting on the tabletop above

Framed Chinese Feng Shui Lu Ban Ruler - c.1900

Regular price: $1,580.00
Regular price
Sale price: $1,580.00

Shipping calculated at checkout.

Found in United Kingdom

An unusual antique Chinese Lu Ban ruler, dating to the early 20th century and presented within a custom decorative gilt frame. Traditionally used in Chinese architecture, furniture making and Feng Shui, the Lu Ban ruler was designed to determine whether a particular measurement was considered auspicious or inauspicious.

The long rectangular ruler is divided into eight sections of Chinese inscriptions, with brass-inlaid characters and markings arranged across its dark surface. More than a conventional measuring instrument, the Lu Ban ruler reflects the longstanding Chinese practice of assigning symbolic meaning to proportion and dimension. Craftsmen and builders consulted its divisions when determining dimensions for architectural elements, doors, furniture and other objects.

Here, the utilitarian object has been treated almost as an artifact, mounted vertically against a neutral ground and surrounded by a graphic fretwork border inspired by traditional Chinese geometric motifs. A gilt inner molding and darker reeded outer frame give the presentation considerable architectural presence while allowing the ruler itself to remain the focal point. The piece is glazed for protection.

An intriguing intersection of Chinese decorative arts, architecture, craftsmanship and Feng Shui tradition, and an especially compelling object for a library, study or collected interior.

Collectors Notes

We love objects that reveal the systems behind how things were made, and a Lu Ban ruler does exactly that. It wasn't simply concerned with whether something fit—it introduced another layer of meaning to the measurement itself. Framed at this scale, it reads beautifully as a piece of graphic art while retaining the history and purpose of the original tool. Particularly good hung in a library, office or alongside architectural drawings and works on paper.

A distinctive find for the library or study.

Dimensions

Ruler Dimensions: Approx. 17.7 x 2.4" W
Frame Dimensions: Approx. 33.5 x 18.1 x 2" D

Shipping

We ship worldwide, with USPS Ground included for orders within the 48 contiguous U.S. states (5–8 business days). USPS Express (2 business days) is available at checkout for an added cost. Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days, and you’ll receive an email with tracking details once shipped. Please note that delivery times are estimates and may vary due to weather, carrier delays, or peak seasons. If you have any questions about your order, contact us at info@collectorsgene.com.

Who Are You Buying From?

Every object here has a journey before it ever reaches you. I've spent years seeking these pieces out, in back rooms of old ateliers, from families who've inherited more than they can keep, through dealers I've come to trust, in conversations with people who still work with their hands, because I've always believed the things we choose to live with should carry something true. What began as a private obsession became a devotion, one I now share with my wife and daughter, who remind me daily that the best collections are the ones built to be passed down, not simply owned. What you're holding isn't just an object. You're inheriting its story, and becoming part of its next chapter.