【Beijing, May 15, 2026】China Guardian's 2026 Spring Auction concluded successfully yesterday, with the highly anticipated "Gilt and Jade Reflections – Ancient Jadeware Special Session" performing exceptionally well. The total transaction value reached RMB 380 million, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 89.5%, significantly exceeding market expectations. The success of this session not only reaffirmed the robust position of ancient jadeware in the Chinese art market but also signaled a positive market recovery.
This special session of ancient jadeware presented 120 exquisite pieces, spanning from the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing dynasties, including many museum-quality rare collectibles. The highlight of the auction was a "Western Han White Jade Carved Chi-Dragon Motif Bi Disc," which started at RMB 28 million and, after multiple rounds of intense bidding, finally hammered at RMB 65 million, achieving a premium rate of 132% and becoming the highest-priced item of the session. Another "Song Dynasty Celadon Jade Carved Auspicious Beast Motif Ewer" also performed well, selling for RMB 32 million, an increase of nearly 80% from its estimate. In addition, several Ming and Qing imperial jade pieces were highly sought after by collectors, with prices generally exceeding estimates by 30% to 50%.
From the transaction data, several significant characteristics emerged from this auction: Firstly, high-quality and rare ancient jadeware remains the focus of market pursuit, with its value stability and appreciation potential fully demonstrated. Secondly, collectors showed immense enthusiasm for jade pieces with clear provenance, excellent condition, and historical and cultural value. Even amidst economic uncertainties, they were willing to invest heavily in bidding. Thirdly, a new generation of collectors is gradually emerging, showing increasing interest in ancient art, injecting new vitality into the market.
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: "The success of this Guardian Spring Auction's ancient jadeware session is the result of multiple factors. On one hand, China's steady economic recovery provided a favorable macro environment for the art market; on the other hand, Guardian's professionalism in soliciting consignments, academic research, and market promotion also played a crucial role. Especially for ancient jadeware, an art form with profound cultural heritage, its unique collection value and investment attributes give it greater resilience amidst market fluctuations."
Ms. Wang Li, Vice President of China Guardian Auctions and Head of the Jade Department, stated: "We are very pleased with the performance of this ancient jadeware session. This not only reflects the strong market demand for high-quality ancient jade but also demonstrates collectors' deep appreciation for traditional Chinese culture. In the future, we will continue to delve into the field of ancient jade, committed to discovering and presenting more treasures with historical, artistic, and academic value, providing global collectors with better collection opportunities."
Looking ahead, with the continuous enhancement of China's traditional cultural confidence and the sustained growth of high-net-worth individuals, the ancient jade market is expected to usher in a new period of prosperity. Experts generally believe that ancient jade pieces with excellent condition, clear provenance, and rich cultural connotations will remain the preferred choice for market investment and collection. Simultaneously, advancements in appraisal technology empowered by science and technology will further boost market confidence, promoting the ancient jade market towards a healthier and more standardized development. The outstanding performance of this Guardian Spring Auction undoubtedly set a positive tone for the art market in 2026 and the coming years, heralding the arrival of a vibrant new era of collecting.