[Hong Kong, October 28, 2026] Sotheby's Hong Kong Autumn Sale 2026 concluded successfully yesterday, achieving a total sales figure of HKD 2.53 billion, exceeding the pre-sale estimate by 15% with a high sell-through rate of 88%. The highly anticipated 'Important Chinese Art' sale performed particularly well, especially the high-ancient jade section, led by a rare Warring States period celadon jade bi disc with grain pattern, once again confirming the robust position of top-tier ancient jade in the art market.
The highlight of this auction, a Warring States period celadon jade bi disc with grain pattern, measuring 22 cm in diameter, was hammered down at an astonishing HKD 120 million, far exceeding its pre-sale estimate of HKD 60-80 million, representing a price increase of 50% to 100%. This jade bi disc boasts a warm and lustrous texture, rich patina, meticulously arranged grain patterns, and exquisite craftsmanship. Its condition, age, and cultural value are all exceptional, attracting fierce bidding from both in-person and online collectors. Ultimately, the lot was acquired by an anonymous Asian private collector, setting a new auction record for high-ancient jade bi discs in the past five years.
In addition to this star lot, several other ancient jade pieces also performed well. A Western Han white jade belt hook with dragon motif sold for HKD 38 million, exceeding its estimate by 20%; a set of Eastern Han celadon jade mythical beast ornaments sold for HKD 25 million, achieving a sell-through rate of 95%. Overall, the high-ancient jade section achieved a total sales figure of HKD 450 million, accounting for nearly 30% of the total sales of the 'Important Chinese Art' sale, with an average transaction price increasing by 18% compared to the same period last year.
Market Analysis and Trend Forecast:
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: "The excellent performance of the high-ancient jade section at this Sotheby's Autumn Sale is not accidental. In recent years, with fluctuations in the global economic situation, the art market has shown a polarized trend. On one hand, contemporary art and emerging art categories face certain adjustment pressures; on the other hand, ancient artworks with profound historical and cultural heritage, scarce quantities, and extremely high artistic value, especially high-ancient jade, are increasingly demonstrating their safe-haven attributes and investment value. Top-tier high-ancient jade, due to its non-renewable nature and unique historical and cultural significance, is becoming an important component of asset allocation for global top collectors."
Mr. Li Ming further analyzed: "Jade wares from the Warring States to the Han Dynasty, especially ritual objects and ornaments, have always been highly regarded for their exquisite craftsmanship, unique patterns, and embedded philosophical ideas. The high price achieved by this Warring States celadon jade bi disc will undoubtedly further boost market confidence. It is expected that in the next two years, top-tier high-ancient jade with excellent condition and clear provenance will continue to maintain a steady upward trend, with price increases expected to remain in the 10%-15% range."
Expert Commentary:
Mr. Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby's Asia, Chinese Art, stated: "We are very pleased with the results of this autumn sale, particularly the strong performance of the high-ancient jade section. This fully demonstrates global collectors' recognition and pursuit of the profound cultural value of Chinese ancient art. The successful sale of this Warring States jade bi disc is not only a testament to its intrinsic artistic charm but also a reaffirmation of the market's value for high-quality, rare ancient jade. In the future, we will continue to dedicate ourselves to discovering and presenting more Chinese ancient treasures with historical significance and artistic value to meet the growing market demand."
The success of this Sotheby's Autumn Sale has undoubtedly injected a strong shot in the arm for the global art market, particularly painting a vibrant future for the high-ancient jade market. Industry insiders generally believe that in the foreseeable future, high-ancient jade will continue to serve as an important pillar of the Chinese art market, attracting more international collectors' attention.