Another Mudmen Question What is he holding ?

I have several that are holding the same kind of thing I just have no idea what it is.

 

Looks like a horsetail fly whisk:

https://www.trocadero.com/stores/tretslbj/items/787803/China-Antique-Fly-Whisk-Zitan-Horse-Tail-19th

 

Thank you

 

I concur

 

On the symbolism of the whisk:
In ancient times when a Daoist disciple would leave their temple to travel as a wandering monk, their master would give them three gifts, including a horsetail whisk. If the disciple was tempted to return to secular life, the whisk would serve as a reminder that these thoughts were like mosquitos buzzing around them, and could be swept away. Horsetail whisks are also used in Daoist ritual as a spiritual tool for purifying a space and remove evil influences. If you watch a lot of Chinese movies or television, you have probably seen Laozi or the Daoist sage Wang Chongyang carrying a horsetail whisk.
https://daoistgate.com/whisk/