Hangzhou, May 28, 2026 – The highly anticipated Xiling Yinshe 2026 Spring Auction recently concluded successfully. The total transaction value of this spring auction reached RMB 1.25 billion, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 82.5%, an increase of 15% compared to the same period last year, indicating a strong overall recovery in the art market. Among them, the contemporary jade carving sector performed particularly well, becoming a major highlight of this auction.
This spring auction featured 12 special sessions, covering various categories such as Chinese painting and calligraphy, ancient books and rubbings, scholar's objects, and contemporary jade carving. The contemporary jade carving session offered 120 exquisite pieces, with 108 ultimately sold, achieving a high sell-through rate of 90%. The total transaction value exceeded RMB 180 million, an increase of 25% compared to the same period last year, far exceeding market expectations. This data not only set a new historical transaction record for Xiling Yinshe's contemporary jade carving sector but also injected new vitality into the entire jade market.
Regarding key lots, the Hetian jade seed material 'Auspicious Beast Presenting Prosperity' sculpture, designed and carved by the renowned jade carving master Wang Jian, was highly sought after due to its exquisite craftsmanship and superior jade quality. After multiple rounds of fierce bidding, it finally sold for a high price of RMB 28 million, far exceeding its pre-auction estimate (RMB 18-22 million), becoming the 'star lot' of this contemporary jade carving session. Another piece, the Biyu 'Sound of Mountains and Rivers' plaque, created by the emerging young jade carver Li Ming, also achieved an excellent price of RMB 6.5 million, more than double its pre-auction estimate (RMB 3-4 million), demonstrating the market's recognition of innovative design.
Mr. Zhang Hua, General Manager of Xiling Yinshe Auction Co., Ltd., stated in an interview: "The success of this spring auction, especially the outstanding performance of the contemporary jade carving sector, fully demonstrates that the market demand for high-quality, culturally rich artworks remains strong. Collectors' pursuit of contemporary jade carving masters' works and their attention to emerging designers' creations both indicate that the contemporary jade carving market is moving towards a more mature and diversified stage."
Professor Li, a senior jade market analyst, pointed out: "The data from the contemporary jade carving sector at this Xiling Yinshe spring auction has significant indicative meaning. On the one hand, traditional Hetian jade seed material masterpieces remain the backbone of the market, with their scarcity and cultural value determining their high preservation and appreciation potential. On the other hand, in other jade types such as Biyu and Qingyu, works with unique artistic styles and exquisite craftsmanship have also begun to gain favor among collectors, indicating that the contemporary jade carving market is expanding its aesthetic boundaries and collection scope. Furthermore, the rise of a new generation of jade carvers has brought new vitality and growth points to the market."
From a market trend perspective, with the sustained improvement of the domestic economy and the enhancement of cultural confidence, art investment is gradually becoming an important component of asset allocation for high-net-worth individuals. Contemporary jade carving, as a category that combines artistry, collectibility, and cultural heritage, will continue to be highly valued in the market. In the future, we expect the contemporary jade carving market to show the following trends: first, the premium for works by renowned masters will be further consolidated; second, works with innovative themes and craftsmanship will receive more attention; and third, traceability of jade origins and artwork certification will become key concerns for collectors to ensure the authenticity and value of their collections. The success of this Xiling Yinshe spring auction undoubtedly sets a positive tone for the art market, especially the contemporary jade carving sector, for 2026 and the coming years.