Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Sells for Premium, Signalling a Resurgence in the Ancient Jade Market

Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Sells for Premium, Signalling a Resurgence in the Ancient Jade Market

[Hong Kong, March 9, 2026] At today's Sotheby's Asian Art Spring Sale, a highly anticipated 'White Jade 'Longevity' Ruyi Sceptre from the Qianlong Period' achieved a remarkable hammer price of RMB 7,181,083, significantly exceeding its low estimate of RMB 5,141,940 and approaching the mid-point of its high estimate range of RMB 10,283,880. This result not only reconfirms the market appeal of Qianlong imperial jade but also sends a positive signal that the ancient jade sector may be entering a new period of recovery.

#### Item Details and Market Performance

Lot 7626, the Qianlong white jade 'Longevity' ruyi sceptre, with its exquisite craftsmanship, superior jade quality, and auspicious symbolism, attracted considerable attention from collectors and professionals during the preview. Crafted from Hetian white jade, its warm luster and intricate carvings of bats, peaches, and scrolling lotus motifs perfectly embody the aesthetic tastes and imperial grandeur of the prosperous Qianlong era. The final selling price, exceeding RMB 7 million, represents a nearly 40% premium over the low estimate, fully demonstrating the strong demand and appreciation for high-quality, well-provenanced Qing dynasty imperial jade in the market.

Sotheby's initial estimate range of RMB 5,141,940 - 10,283,880 reflected a cautiously optimistic assessment of the ruyi's value. The actual hammer price falling in the upper-middle portion of this range indicates strong bidding interest and a willingness among buyers to pay a premium for rarity and artistic merit.

#### Ancient Jade Market Trend Analysis

In recent years, the global art market has been affected by macroeconomic fluctuations, and the ancient jade sector has also experienced a period of adjustment. However, the high price achieved by this Qianlong white jade ruyi, coupled with the steady performance of other high-quality ancient jades in recent auctions, suggests that the ancient jade market is gradually emerging from its trough, exhibiting several notable trends:

• Boutique Strategy Continues to Pay Off: While demand for common or average-condition ancient jades remains subdued, the value of top-tier ancient jades with clear provenance, perfect condition, and exquisite craftsmanship remains robust, even reaching new highs. Collectors and investors are increasingly inclined to allocate funds to 'hard assets' that possess rarity and cultural significance.

• Qianlong Period Jade Remains a 'Hard Currency': The Qianlong period represents the pinnacle of Chinese jade carving, achieving unprecedented heights in material selection, form design, and carving techniques. Imperial jade from this era, embodying both royal aesthetics and superb artistry, has consistently been a market favorite. The high price of this ruyi once again confirms the leading position of Qianlong jade in the market.

• Strong Purchasing Power of Asian Collectors: With sustained economic growth in Asia, local collectors' interest and purchasing power for traditional Chinese art are steadily increasing. They are not only major participants in the ancient jade market but also significant drivers of price appreciation. While the buyer's identity for this ruyi remains undisclosed, it is highly likely to be an experienced collector from Greater China or other parts of Asia.

• Balancing Cultural and Investment Value: Modern collectors, when acquiring ancient jade, are increasingly considering not only potential investment returns but also the historical, cultural, and aesthetic values embedded within the pieces. A beautifully crafted ancient jade, rich in cultural heritage, holds collection significance far beyond mere financial investment.

Looking ahead, the ancient jade market is expected to gradually recover, led by high-quality pieces. However, market differentiation will become more pronounced, with polarization continuing to intensify. For auction houses, the key to attracting collectors and boosting the market will be to continuously discover and present ancient jade masterpieces with unique historical, cultural, and artistic appeal. For collectors, when investing in ancient jade, in addition to focusing on material and craftsmanship, it is crucial to consider the reliability of its provenance, the completeness of its condition, and its place in art history. The successful auction of this Qianlong white jade ruyi undoubtedly injects a strong shot in the arm for the ancient jade market, heralding the arrival of a more mature and rational era of collecting.