Hello, fellow collectors! I'm Old Zhang, a restorer who has been working with jade for half a lifetime. Today, I'm not talking about restoration, but rather sharing my experience of participating in a jade auction for the first time. Back then, I had just started in the industry, had some savings, and had accumulated some identification knowledge. I always wanted to find a treasure that I liked. But auctions, to me, were like a mysterious and tempting casino. I wanted to go in and explore, but I was also afraid of becoming a 'sucker'.
Scene Introduction: First Time at the Auction, Heart Pounding
I remember it was 2005, a large jade auction in Beijing. I arrived early, filled with apprehension. As soon as I entered, I was overwhelmed by the dazzling array of exhibits. All kinds of ancient jade, Ming and Qing dynasty jade, and modern masterpieces made my eyes dizzy. The air was filled with hushed whispers and appraisal sounds, a tense yet excited atmosphere. I thought to myself, this is not the pace of 'finding bargains' in the antique market that I'm used to; this is a real showdown.
Core Skill: Pre-Auction Homework is Paramount
1. Early Preview, Meticulous Observation: A few days before the auction, I specially took leave to attend the preview. This is absolutely paramount! I brought a magnifying glass, a flashlight, and even a small bottle of purified water to observe the jade quality, color, carving, and flaws more clearly. I remember I took a fancy to a Qing dynasty white jade archer's ring. The jade was warm and moist, and the carving was exquisite. I played with it repeatedly, even gently scratching it with my fingernail to confirm there were no cracks or repairs. I also took photos and went home to compare them with data and research market prices for similar artifacts.
2. Set a Budget, Stick to the Bottom Line: During the preview, I set a psychological price for the jade pieces I was interested in. This price was based on my identification ability, market conditions, and my affordable economic range. I told myself that no matter how enthusiastic the atmosphere was at the scene, I could not break this bottom line. My experience tells me that many novices easily get carried away at auction sites, influenced by the atmosphere, and ultimately exceed their budget, buying something not worth it.
3. Understand the Lot Information, Know Thyself and Thy Opponent: The information in the auction catalog must be carefully studied, including the age, material, size, and provenance of the lot. Some lots will have detailed textual descriptions, and even come with appraisal certificates, which are important references. The archer's ring I was interested in was marked as 'Qing Dynasty white jade' in the catalog. Combined with my own judgment, I felt the description was basically accurate.
Precautions: Calm and Composed, Refuse to Follow Blindly
1. Stay Calm, Do Not Be Impulsive: The pace of the auction site is very fast, the host speaks quickly, and the rising bids can easily make adrenaline surge. I saw someone at that time, in order to compete for a small snuff bottle, the price soared to an absurd level. I told myself that I must keep a clear head, not be influenced by others' bids, and certainly not blindly follow suit for the sake of 'face'.
2. Observe Bidders, Gauge Psychology: This is a small trick. During the bidding process, I would pay attention to the expressions and actions of other bidders. Some are determined to win, some are tentative bidders. By observing, you can roughly judge the intensity of the competition. If only one or two people continue to bid for a certain lot, it means the competition is relatively concentrated, and the price may be driven up very high.
3. Give Up in Time, No Regrets: When the bidding for the archer's ring I was interested in reached my set maximum price, someone continued to bid. Although I was very reluctant, I still chose to give up. Because I knew that if it exceeded my budget, even if I bought it, I would have a burden in my heart. Jade collection is about fate. If you miss this one, there will always be another one.
Experience Summary: Auction is Practice, Also Fun
Although I didn't get the archer's ring in my first auction, I unexpectedly bought a Republic period celadon jade brush pot at a very reasonable price. The brush pot had fine jade quality and simple carving. After carefully cleaning and playing with it at home, I liked it more and more. This experience made me realize that auctions are not just about buying and selling, but also a comprehensive test of eyesight, mentality, and strategy. It taught me how to stay sober in the face of temptation and how to stick to principles in competition. Since then, I have participated in several auctions and successfully acquired several favorite treasures. Every auction is a learning and growth experience. I hope my experience can inspire fellow collectors. I wish everyone can reap their own surprises and joys on the road of jade collection! Remember, playing with jade is about state of mind, and even more about eyesight!