[BEIJING, November 15, 2026] China Guardian's 2026 Autumn Auction concluded successfully yesterday, achieving a total transaction volume of RMB 3.25 billion, an 18.7% increase compared to the same period last year, with a high sell-through rate of 82.3%. This demonstrates a strong recovery momentum in the art market, particularly in the jade sector. The highly anticipated 'Jade Splendor – Important Hetian Jade Carvings' special session performed exceptionally well, with several exquisite pieces selling for prices far exceeding their estimates, becoming the biggest highlight of this autumn auction.
Hetian jade carvings were undoubtedly the focus of this autumn auction. The leading lot, 'Qianlong Period, Qing Dynasty, White Jade Carving of Immortal Mountains and Pavilions', hammered for an astonishing RMB 180 million, far surpassing its estimate of RMB 80 million, with a premium rate of 125%. It became the 'star lot' of the auction. According to the auction house, this mountain carving boasts superior material, delicate and warm jade quality, and exquisite craftsmanship, fully showcasing the imperial grandeur of the Qianlong era, attracting fierce bidding from domestic and international collectors. Another piece, 'Mid-Qing Dynasty,碧玉 Carving of Dragon and Phoenix Auspicious Brush Pot', also sold for RMB 38 million, a 153% increase compared to its RMB 15 million estimate, once again confirming the scarcity and collection value of high-quality Hetian jade.
Overall, the 'Jade Splendor' special session presented 120 exquisite Hetian jade pieces, with a total transaction volume of RMB 850 million and a high sell-through rate of 95.8%. Among them, over 50% of the lots sold for prices exceeding their high estimates, with an average premium rate of 45%. These figures not only far exceeded market expectations but also injected a strong boost into the somewhat quiet jade market in recent years.
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: "The excellent performance of the Hetian jade sector in this China Guardian autumn auction reflects the continued strong demand for rare, high-quality Hetian jade. Against the backdrop of gradual economic recovery, high-net-worth individuals are showing increased willingness to invest in art with value preservation and appreciation attributes. As a treasure of traditional Chinese culture, Hetian jade's unique cultural value and scarcity make it an ideal investment target. Especially those imperial pieces or renowned private collections with clear provenance, superior jade quality, and exquisite craftsmanship are being re-evaluated and recognized by the market."
Ms. Wang Li, head of China Guardian's Jade Department, stated in an interview: "We are very satisfied with the results of this Hetian jade special session. This is due to our strict selection criteria for lots and professional marketing strategies. From the transaction results, collectors have shown great enthusiasm for exquisite white jade and碧玉, especially works with historical and cultural backgrounds and unique artistic styles, which performed most prominently in the market. We expect the Hetian jade market to continue steady growth in the coming years, and the prices of exquisite jade pieces still have considerable room for appreciation."
From a market trend perspective, this auction also revealed some noteworthy developments. Firstly, collectors' pursuit of jade quality has reached an unprecedented level, with top-grade Hetian jade such as 'mutton-fat jade' and 'first-grade white jade' being highly sought after. Secondly, craftsmanship and cultural connotation have become key factors determining the value of lots, with exquisite traditional craftsmanship and storytelling themes being more favored. Finally, the market has higher trust in lots with clear provenance and documented circulation, which is also an important trend in the future collection market.
In summary, the success of China Guardian's 2026 Autumn Auction, particularly the outstanding performance of the Hetian jade carving sector, not only injected new vitality into the art market but also pointed the direction for Hetian jade collection and investment. With the continuous development of China's economy and the increasing cultural confidence, Hetian jade, as a treasure of the Chinese nation, will continue to unleash its market value and collection potential.