【Hong Kong, November 15, 2026】Sotheby's Hong Kong Autumn 2026 auction concluded successfully yesterday, achieving a total sales figure of $285 million, significantly exceeding pre-sale estimates, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 88.5%. The ancient jade bi section, in particular, performed exceptionally well, with several rare pieces setting new records for their categories, signaling a strong recovery in the high-end art market, especially for ancient Chinese jade artifacts.
The undisputed highlight of this autumn sale was a 'Dragon and Phoenix Motif Celadon Jade Bi' from the Warring States period, estimated at $8 million to $12 million. After multiple rounds of intense bidding, it finally hammered down at an astonishing $21.5 million, an impressive 79% premium, acquired by an Asian private collector, making it the top-selling lot of the auction. This jade bi, with a diameter of 28 cm, boasts a warm jade quality and exquisite craftsmanship, with lifelike dragon and phoenix motifs, possessing immense historical and artistic value. According to Mr. Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby's Asia, this piece had been in an important European private collection for over half a century and garnered significant global attention upon its first appearance at auction.
In addition to the 'Dragon and Phoenix Motif Celadon Jade Bi,' a 'Grain Pattern White Jade Bi' from the Western Han Dynasty also performed strongly, selling for $4.8 million, exceeding its high estimate of $3 million by 60%. Furthermore, a set of five Hongshan Culture jade artifacts, offered as a single lot, fetched $1.2 million, well above its $800,000 estimate, demonstrating collectors' recognition of the cultural value of early jade artifacts.
Overall, the ancient jade section of this autumn sale achieved a total of $55 million, accounting for nearly 20% of the total sales, with a sell-through rate of 92%. This figure not only significantly surpasses the performance of the same category in the Autumn 2025 sale ($38 million total, 85% sell-through rate) but also breaks the highest record of the past five years, indicating robust market demand for high-quality, well-provenanced ancient jade.
Market Analysis and Trend Forecast:
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: "The success of this Sotheby's autumn sale, especially the outstanding performance of the ancient jade bi section, sends several important market signals. Firstly, the global economy is gradually stabilizing, and the investment confidence of high-net-worth individuals is recovering, with art's safe-haven asset status once again highlighted. Secondly, the influence of traditional Chinese culture continues to grow globally, and overseas collectors' interest in ancient Chinese art is increasing. Finally, scarcity and clear provenance are key factors determining the value of a lot, and the high-priced jade bi in this auction possessed these qualities."
Ms. Wang Li, a jade market analyst, added: "In recent years, the ancient jade market has gradually emerged from the adjustment period of previous years. Particularly, well-preserved, exquisitely crafted, and historically significant masterpieces are showing a steady upward trend in price. Collectors are increasingly focusing on the cultural connotations and academic value of their collections, rather than just the material itself. We expect this trend to continue in the coming years, with the value of high-ancient jades from the Warring States and Han Dynasties being further explored by the market."
Expert Commentary and Market Perspectives:
Professor Zhang, a renowned ancient jade connoisseur, stated: "The selling price of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Motif Celadon Jade Bi' not only set a new record for similar pieces but, more importantly, injected a strong boost into the entire ancient jade market. This indicates that top collectors' understanding and recognition of ancient Chinese jade have reached an unprecedented level. Such jade bi are not merely artworks but also carriers of Chinese civilization, and their value will continue to appreciate over time."
An anonymous senior gallery owner also commented: "The success of this auction signals a strong rebound in the art market after a period of structural adjustment. Collectors' demand for masterpieces is inexhaustible, and the professionalism of auction houses in sourcing and promotion is also crucial. In the future, we look forward to seeing more high-quality ancient Chinese art enter the international spotlight."
In conclusion, the stellar performance of Sotheby's Autumn 2026 auction, particularly the excellent results in the ancient jade bi section, not only instilled confidence in the art market but also painted a positive blueprint for the future development of ancient Chinese jade.