【Hong Kong, October 28, 2026】Sotheby's Autumn 2026 auction concluded successfully yesterday, with the 'Important Chinese Art' sale performing exceptionally well. The ancient jade bi section, in particular, achieved astonishing sales figures, once again confirming its robust position in the art market. The total sales for this auction reached HK$285 million, exceeding the pre-sale high estimate by 15%, with a sell-through rate of 88%, demonstrating collectors' strong pursuit of exquisite artifacts.
The highlight of this auction was undoubtedly several ancient jade bi with distinguished provenances. Among them, a Warring States period Hetian celadon jade bi with grain patterns, 22 cm in diameter, in perfect condition, with warm jade quality and finely arranged grain patterns, was hammered at HK$48 million, far exceeding its highest estimate of HK$30 million, a premium rate of 60%. Another Western Han period white jade bi with dragon and phoenix motifs, 18 cm in diameter, featuring intricate carving and vivid patterns, sold for HK$35 million, a 40% increase over its pre-sale estimate. In addition, a batch of smaller high-ancient jade bi also performed well, with many selling for over 20% above their estimates, driving the total sales of the jade bi section to HK$120 million, accounting for 42% of the total sales for this session, a 25% increase compared to the same period last year.
Mr. Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby's Asia, International Head of Chinese Art, stated after the auction: “The exceptional performance of ancient jade bi once again highlights the unique charm and scarcity value of top-tier high-ancient jade in the hearts of global collectors. We have observed that market demand for ancient jade bi with perfect condition, clear provenance, and exquisite craftsmanship remains strong, especially for masterpieces from the Warring States to Han dynasties, whose prices have entered a new upward channel.”
From a market analysis perspective, the strong performance of ancient jade bi is not accidental. In recent years, with the continuous development of the Chinese economy and the enhancement of cultural confidence, more and more collectors are turning their attention to ancient Chinese artworks with profound historical and cultural heritage. Jade bi, as an important carrier of ancient Chinese ritual and aesthetics, its unique historical, cultural, and artistic value makes it a darling of the collecting world. Especially high-ancient jade bi, due to its rarity, difficulty in authentication, and rich cultural connotations, has long been regarded as the pinnacle of collecting.
Professor Zhang, a senior jade appraisal expert and independent art critic, pointed out: “The jade bi that achieved high premiums in this auction generally shared several characteristics: firstly, superior jade quality, mostly Hetian jade; secondly, exquisite carving, clear patterns, and distinct period styles; thirdly, clear provenance and well-documented circulation. These factors collectively formed the basis of their high value. At the same time, we see a growing interest in high-ancient jade among new collectors, who pay more attention to the historical value and artistic beauty of the collection, rather than just pursuing the rarity of the material.”
Looking ahead, the market generally believes that the heat for ancient jade bi, especially high-ancient jade bi, will continue. With the gradual recovery of the global economy and the trend of diversified art investment, ancient jade bi, which possesses the attributes of hard currency and cultural heritage value, will attract more international capital attention. However, experts also remind collectors that the high-ancient jade market is mixed, and the requirements for professional authentication are extremely high. Investment needs to be cautious, and it is essential to choose reputable auction houses and professional institutions, and seek advice from authoritative experts to mitigate risks and ensure the quality and value of the collection.