Beijing, May 15, 2026 – The highly anticipated Poly 2026 Spring Auction recently concluded with great success. The ancient jade special session, in particular, showcased exquisite pieces and robust transaction performance, reaffirming the resilience and vitality of the Chinese art market. This session featured 120 precious ancient jade items, with 108 successfully sold, achieving an impressive 90% sell-through rate. The total transaction value reached RMB 185 million, a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, indicating strong market demand for high-quality ancient jade.
Highlights were abundant in this session. A Warring States period 'Grain Pattern Bi Disc' fetched an astonishing RMB 28 million, significantly exceeding its pre-sale estimate of RMB 18 million, with a premium rate of 55%, making it the highest-priced lot of the session. This bi disc, with its lustrous jade, exquisite craftsmanship, and perfect condition, received full market recognition for its rarity and historical value. Additionally, a Western Han Dynasty 'Chilong Dragon Pattern Jade Belt Hook' sold for RMB 15 million, a 25% increase over its estimate, once again demonstrating the significant status of Han Dynasty jade in collectors' hearts. Notably, several high-ancient jade pieces (referring to jade from before the Han Dynasty) performed exceptionally well, with an average transaction price exceeding estimates by over 30%, becoming the focal point of this auction.
Mr. Zhang Ming, Head of Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art Department at Poly Auction, stated in an interview: “The excellent performance of this ancient jade special session, especially the strong momentum of high-ancient jade, reflects the current market's renewed understanding of the collection value of cultural relics and artworks. Under economic downturn pressures, high-quality artworks with clear provenance, historical and cultural value are increasingly highlighting their hedging and appreciation attributes. Collectors are paying more attention to the rarity, craftsmanship, and cultural connotations of the pieces.”
From the data, the average price per item in this auction reached RMB 1.71 million, a 10% increase from the same period last year. All lots estimated above RMB 5 million were sold, many with premiums. For lots estimated between RMB 1 million and RMB 5 million, the sell-through rate was as high as 95%. This indicates stable demand in the high-end market and a positive growth trend in the mid-range market.
Professor Li Hua, a senior jade market analyst, pointed out: “The success of Poly Spring Auction's ancient jade special session suggests that the ancient jade market is undergoing a significant recovery period. High-ancient jade, in particular, due to its scarcity and profound historical and cultural value, is gradually becoming a new favorite among collectors. In the coming years, we anticipate that the market value of high-ancient jade will continue to rise, and exquisite pieces with clear provenance, perfect condition, and unique artistic styles will be even more sought after. Simultaneously, the growing interest of younger generations of collectors in ancient jade culture has injected new vitality into the market. However, the market still needs to be wary of fakes and excessive speculation. Collectors should focus on acquiring professional knowledge and investing rationally.”
The success of this auction not only earned Poly Auction a good reputation but also instilled confidence in the entire art market. With the gradual global economic recovery and the enhancement of cultural confidence, the Chinese ancient jade market is expected to embrace an even more brilliant future.