Qing Dynasty White Jade Ruyi Scepter Fetches High Price, Ancient Jade Market Shows Steady Growth

At a significant Asian art auction held by Bonhams on January 21, 2026, a highly anticipated Qianlong Period white jade 'Longevity and Fortune' ruyi scepter was sold for RMB 2,834,169, significantly exceeding its lower estimate of RMB 2,068,192. This result not only highlights the market appeal of top-tier ancient jade artifacts but also injects a strong dose of confidence into the currently somewhat volatile art market.

#### Highlights of the Lot and Market Performance

The Qing Dynasty Qianlong white jade ruyi (Lot 7422) that achieved this price, its exquisite craftsmanship and superior material were key to its high valuation. The ruyi was carved from Xinjiang Hetian river pebble jade, renowned for its warm, fine texture and pristine white color, with natural russet inclusions adding to its antique charm. In terms of carving, auspicious motifs such as bats, peaches, and scrolling lotus patterns are skillfully arranged with fluid lines and profound symbolism, fully demonstrating the highest level of imperial jade carving during the Qianlong period. Compared to its estimated range of RMB 2,068,192 to RMB 4,136,385, the final hammer price, while not reaching the upper estimate, significantly surpassed the lower estimate, indicating strong market enthusiasm for well-preserved, finely crafted, and well-provenanced ancient jade treasures.

#### Resilience and Trends in the Ancient Jade Market

In recent years, despite various uncertainties in the global art market, the ancient jade sector has shown remarkable resilience. The high price achieved by this white jade ruyi further confirms several market trends:

  • Material is King: Hetian jade, especially premium river pebble jade, remains the core value in ancient jade collecting. Its rarity, warm texture, and profound cultural connotations give it strong potential for preservation and appreciation in any market environment.

  • Craftsmanship Paramount: Imperial jade carvings from the Qianlong period are celebrated for their exquisite techniques, rigorous composition, and auspicious symbolism. Such pieces, representing the highest artistic achievements of a specific historical era, consistently attract the attention of top collectors.

  • Cultural Significance: As an auspicious object in traditional Chinese culture, the ruyi embodies blessings and good wishes. Its symbolism of 'as one wishes' (如意吉祥) gives it a broad appeal in the collecting market.

  • Globalization of Collecting: As an internationally renowned auction house, Bonhams' platform attracts collectors from around the globe. This sale also reflects the increasing influence of Chinese ancient jade in the global art market, with growing recognition and acceptance of traditional Chinese art among international collectors.


#### Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the ancient jade market is expected to continue its steady growth. With China's sustained economic development and increasing cultural confidence, domestic collectors' enthusiasm for traditional art will remain high. Concurrently, international interest in Chinese art will continue to deepen. However, market polarization will become more pronounced: pristine, rare, exquisitely crafted, and clearly provenanced ancient jade masterpieces will continue to command high prices, potentially setting new records; while pieces of ordinary condition or questionable authenticity may see relatively flat market performance.

For collectors, investing in ancient jade requires specialized connoisseurship and keen market insight. It is advisable to rely on authentication from reputable institutions, focus on the historical provenance and cultural value of the piece, rather than blindly chasing short-term price fluctuations. The successful auction of this Qianlong white jade ruyi undoubtedly injects new vitality into the ancient jade market and provides important market reference for collectors.

Keywords: Qing Dynasty White Jade Ruyi, Bonhams, Ancient Jade Market, Qianlong Period, Hetian Jade, Art Auction, Market Trends, Collectible Value