Beijing, November 28, 2026 – The highly anticipated Beijing Council 2026 Autumn Art Auction concluded successfully today. The 'Jade Radiance – Chinese Jade Carving Art Treasures' special session performed exceptionally well, achieving a total transaction value of RMB 285 million and a remarkable sell-through rate of 88.5%, significantly exceeding market expectations. The success of this auction not only injected a strong dose of confidence into the long-sluggish jade carving market but also signaled the return of a collecting craze for high-end jade carving artworks.
A total of 120 exquisite jade carving artworks were presented in this special session, covering ancient jade, Ming and Qing dynasty jade, and innovative works by contemporary jade carving masters. Data shows that 106 lots successfully changed hands, with many items selling for prices far exceeding their estimates, fully demonstrating collectors' pursuit of fine jade carvings.
Regarding the highlight lots, a 'White Jade Carved Dragon and Phoenix Ruyi Scepter' from the Qing Dynasty, Qianlong period, sold for an astonishing RMB 38 million, nearly 50% higher than its estimated price of RMB 20-25 million, becoming the 'top lot' of this session. This ruyi scepter boasts superior material, delicate and warm jade, exquisite craftsmanship, and auspicious symbolism, making its rarity and historical value highly sought after by numerous collectors. Another 'Biotite Jade Landscape and Figure Ornament' created by contemporary jade carving master Mr. Wang Dong, sold for RMB 15 million, an increase of 87.5% compared to its estimate of RMB 8-10 million. This not only set a new auction record for Mr. Wang Dong's personal works but also confirmed the strong potential of contemporary jade carving artworks in the market.
In addition, a 'Celadon Jade Dragon-shaped Pendant' from the Warring States period also sold for RMB 12 million, exceeding its estimate of RMB 6-8 million by 50%. This ancient jade piece attracted the attention of many ancient jade collectors with its unique historical charm and exquisite form. Overall, Ming and Qing dynasty jade continued to be the main force in this auction, contributing nearly 60% of the total transaction value; while masterpieces by contemporary jade carving masters also performed well, accounting for over 20% of the transaction value, indicating the market's recognition of innovation and artistry.
Market Analysis and Trend Prediction:
Mr. Li Ming, Head of the Jade Department at Beijing Council Auction House, stated in an interview: "The success of this autumn auction's jade carving session reflects the rigid demand in the market for high-quality, rare jade carving artworks. After several years of adjustment, the jade carving market is gradually recovering, especially for exquisite pieces with excellent material, superb craftsmanship, and clear provenance, whose value is being rediscovered and recognized. We observe that the collector structure is changing, with a growing interest among younger generation collectors in contemporary jade carving artworks, who pay more attention to the artistic and innovative aspects of the works."
Ms. Zhang Hua, a senior jade market analyst, pointed out: "The data from the 2026 autumn auction indicates that the jade carving market has emerged from its slump and entered a new upward cycle. The increasing scarcity of high-end jade resources and the irreplicability of works by top jade carving masters are core factors driving price increases. In the coming years, we expect Ming and Qing imperial jade and representative works by contemporary jade carving masters to continue to lead the market, while the value of ancient jade will gradually increase with the deepening of academic research and the maturation of collecting concepts. Investors should pay attention to the origin of the jade material, the grade of the jade quality, the exquisiteness of the carving craftsmanship, and the cultural connotation and historical provenance of the works."
The excellent results of this Beijing Council autumn auction undoubtedly injected confidence into the entire art market, especially for the jade carving art sector, where signs of recovery are evident, signaling the formation of a more active and healthy collecting environment. While enjoying the aesthetic pleasure brought by artworks, collectors should also invest rationally and focus on the long-term value of the works.