BEIJING, November 20, 2026 – The highly anticipated Poly 2026 Autumn Auction concluded successfully yesterday, with the “Treasures of Jade – Important Ancient Jade Session” performing exceptionally well. The total transaction value reached an impressive RMB 185 million, with a sell-through rate of 88.5%, significantly exceeding market expectations. The success of this auction not only demonstrates the strong resilience of the ancient jade market but also signals a significant recovery trend in the high-end art market.
A total of 120 rare ancient jade pieces were presented in this session, covering exquisite items from the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Among them, a Warring States period 'Grain Pattern Bi Disc' fetched an astonishing RMB 38 million, far surpassing its estimated price of RMB 20 million, with a premium rate of 90%, becoming the highest-priced lot of the session. According to Poly Auction officials, this Grain Pattern Bi Disc boasts warm jade quality, exquisite craftsmanship, perfect condition, and a clear provenance, making it a rare top-tier collectible in recent years. Another Western Han Dynasty 'Chilong Dragon Pattern Jade Belt Hook' also sold for RMB 15 million, an increase of 50% over its estimate, demonstrating the continuous appeal of Han Dynasty jade in the collecting world.
From the data, the average transaction price of this ancient jade session increased by 15% compared to the same period last year, with prices of high-quality, scarce items showing even more significant growth. For instance, several Liangzhu and Hongshan culture jade pieces sold for more than twice their estimated prices, reflecting collectors' increasing appreciation for the historical and artistic value of prehistoric jade.
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: “The success of Poly's ancient jade session is the result of multiple converging factors. Firstly, the gradual stabilization of the global economic environment has provided confidence for high-end art investment. Secondly, as an important carrier of Chinese civilization, ancient jade's cultural value and scarcity make it a preferred choice for safe-haven assets. Finally, Poly's professionalism in consignment, academic research, and market promotion also laid the foundation for this excellent achievement.”
Professor Wang, President of the China Jade Culture Research Association, also stated: “The results of this auction are exhilarating. It indicates that despite market adjustments, the market demand for ancient jade with true historical, artistic, and cultural value remains strong. Especially for those exquisite pieces with clear provenance and first-class condition, there is huge room for price appreciation. In the next few years, we expect the ancient jade market to continue its steady growth, and the investment value of fine jade will become even more prominent.”
Market observers believe that the performance of this Poly Autumn Auction's ancient jade session has injected a strong boost into the entire art market. As more high-net-worth individuals turn their attention to art investment and cultural confidence continues to rise, the ancient jade market is expected to usher in a new period of prosperity. However, experts also remind collectors that when investing in ancient jade, it is still crucial to focus on authenticity identification, condition preservation, and provenance verification to mitigate risks and maximize value.