A modern heirloom
A handbag shaped by 如意.
The first object from XU.
Be first to access the inaugural RuYi release.
Tradition lives
in new hands.
Objects
for a more
meaningful tomorrow.
The journey
Where the first RuYi is now.
From an idea to a tangible form.
Here’s where we are on the road to the first drop.
-
Initial RuYi concept
September 2025
Completed -
20+ iterations developed
November 2025 – February 2026
Completed -
Final form refined
August 2026
Completed -
Hardware development
September 2026
Completed -
First production run
Fall 2026
Upcoming -
Preorder opens
Winter 2026
Upcoming -
First RuYi batch ships
Spring 2027
Upcoming
“An old idea, given new form.”
The object
The Ruyi / 如意
The Ruyi translates the distinctive head of the Chinese ceremonial ruyi sceptre into a structured top-handle bag. Traditionally given to convey good wishes, the ruyi came to embody the sentiment of its name: “as you wish.” Its curved form becomes the flap; its cloud motifs are carved into leather.
A centuries-old form, given new life.
History,
carried
forward.
Form → Detail
Meaning in the details.
Every detail of the Ruyi Top Handle is deliberate. Its carving, hardware, materials and proportions were each chosen for a reason: to carry the story of the original object into a contemporary form.
Cloud carving
Cloud forms carved into leather, echoing motifs long associated with the ruyi.
Warm metal finish
Chosen in reference to the bronzes that shaped centuries of Chinese material culture.
Full-grain leather
Chosen with its natural grain intact, so every surface carries its own character and develops a richer patina with use.
Founder’s journal
Follow the making of XU.
I started XU Atelier to create objects that carry meaning, pieces that connect our present to a deeper heritage. Follow along for behind-the-scenes, prototype updates, and the journey to our first drop.
@the.xu.atelier
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A small atelier.
A larger story.
Be part of what’s next