【Hangzhou, November 15, 2026】The highly anticipated Xiling Yinshe 2026 Autumn Auction concluded successfully yesterday. The “Tracing the Past, Illuminating the Present – Chinese Ancient Jade Session” performed exceptionally well, achieving a total transaction value of RMB 185 million, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 89.5%. This significantly exceeded market expectations, injecting strong confidence into the long-sluggish ancient jade market.
This ancient jade session presented a total of 124 meticulously selected lots, covering various jade artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Data indicates that archaic jades (pre-Han Dynasty) remained the primary focus of collectors. Notably, a “Hongshan Culture Jade Pig Dragon” fetched an astonishing RMB 38 million, far surpassing its estimated price of RMB 22 million, with a premium rate of 72.7%, making it the highest-priced lot of the session. Another “Late Warring States Period Celadon Jade Bi Disc with Grain Pattern” was hammered at RMB 15.8 million, an increase of 43.6% from its estimate. Overall, the sell-through rate for archaic jades reached an impressive 95%, with an average premium rate exceeding 35%, demonstrating the scarcity of top-tier ancient jade resources and strong market demand for high-quality collectibles.
In contrast, the performance of Ming and Qing dynasty jades was relatively stable. A “Qing Dynasty Qianlong Period White Jade Carved Auspicious Beast Pattern Finial” sold for RMB 6.8 million, meeting market expectations. However, some Ming and Qing jades with average condition or common themes were either unsold or sold at their reserve prices, indicating that collectors are more rational in their choices for Ming and Qing jades, prioritizing craftsmanship, material, and verifiable provenance.
Market Analysis and Trend Prediction:
Mr. Li Ming, a seasoned auction industry analyst, pointed out: “The success of Xiling Yinshe’s ancient jade session sends several positive signals. Firstly, the high-end ancient jade market has emerged from the adjustment period of the past few years, with strong price resilience for top-tier collectibles and a steady upward trend. This is primarily due to the gradual stabilization of the global economic environment and a renewed recognition of art investment as a hedge by high-net-worth individuals. Secondly, collectors are increasingly valuing the academic significance, historical provenance, and cultural connotations of ancient jades, moving beyond just material and craftsmanship. Lots with clear origins, well-documented provenance, and significant archaeological importance often command higher premiums.”
Ms. Zhang Hua, an ancient jade market commentator, added: “This auction also reflects the market’s adherence to the principles of ‘authenticity, excellence, and rarity.’ Against the backdrop of rampant fakes, Xiling Yinshe’s rigorous authentication process and brand reputation provide immense confidence to collectors. Simultaneously, the entry of a younger generation of collectors has brought new vitality and aesthetic perspectives to the market, as they tend to collect ancient jades with unique aesthetic value and cultural stories.”
Expert Commentary:
Professor Wang, Director of the Jade Professional Committee of the Chinese Society of Cultural Relics, stated: “The transaction price of the Hongshan Culture Jade Pig Dragon once again confirms the paramount status of prehistoric jades in art history and archaeology. Such artifacts are not only manifestations of exquisite craftsmanship but also crucial physical evidence of the origins of Chinese civilization. Their value extends beyond the economic sphere, residing deeply in their profound historical and cultural heritage. In the future, we anticipate that archaic jades, especially rare pieces with distinct regional cultural characteristics and clear historical dating significance, will continue to be highly sought after in the market.”
Looking ahead, with the continuous strengthening of China’s cultural confidence and the increasing diversification of art investment channels, the ancient jade market is expected to maintain steady growth. However, market differentiation will become more pronounced, with premium jade pieces continuing to strengthen, while ordinary collectibles face greater competitive pressure. For collectors, in-depth research, careful selection, and attention to the historical value and cultural connotations of lots will be key to future success.