Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Scepter Sells for Over 8.17 Million, Signaling a Vibrant Ancient Jade Market

[Xiling Yinshe, February 13, 2026] At today's Spring Auction held by Xiling Yinshe, a highly anticipated Qianlong period white jade 'Double Blessings and Longevity' ruyi scepter fetched an impressive RMB 8,175,519. This figure significantly exceeded the lower end of its estimated range of RMB 4,352,533 - RMB 8,705,066, ultimately selling close to the upper estimate. This remarkable performance not only reaffirms the market appeal of Qing dynasty imperial jade but also injects strong confidence into the currently fluctuating art market, signaling a robust recovery in the ancient jade sector.

The exquisite craftsmanship and auspicious symbolism of this Qianlong white jade ruyi scepter, Lot No. 6116, were key factors in its high price. The piece is carved from superior Hetian white jade, known for its warm luster and pristine white color, fully demonstrating the stringent material selection standards of the Qianlong era. The relief carvings of bats and peaches on the ruyi head symbolize 'double blessings and longevity,' a common auspicious motif in Qing imperial art, highly favored by emperors. The clever combination of scrolling lotus motifs and the 'Shou' (longevity) character on the handle further imbues the object with beautiful wishes. The overall carving is superb, with flowing lines and meticulous polishing, making it a prime example of Qianlong jade carving art in terms of material, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.

Market Analysis: Resilience and Potential of the Ancient Jade Sector

This high-value sale of the Qianlong white jade ruyi scepter is not an isolated incident but rather a concentrated reflection of a series of positive signals in the current ancient jade market. In recent years, the global economic environment has been complex and volatile, and the art market has faced numerous challenges. However, ancient jade, especially high-grade imperial pieces, has demonstrated strong resilience and appreciation potential.

Firstly, scarcity is a core driving force. High-quality ancient jade resources are increasingly depleted, and their existing quantities are limited. Especially for masterpieces from the Qianlong period, which combine material, craftsmanship, and culture, they are truly rare. Over time, their scarcity will become even more pronounced, thereby supporting their value.

Secondly, cultural value and aesthetic recognition. Ancient jade embodies the profound historical and cultural heritage of the Chinese nation. Its warm and subtle qualities align perfectly with Eastern aesthetic philosophy. With increasing cultural confidence, people's appreciation and passion for collecting traditional artworks continue to grow. Qing dynasty imperial jade, in particular, with its inherent imperial taste and grandeur, attracts many high-end collectors.

Furthermore, its investment and hedging properties. Against the backdrop of global inflationary pressures and increasing financial market uncertainties, art as a non-correlated asset is increasingly valued for its hedging function. High-grade ancient jade, due to its stable value foundation and long-term appreciation trend, has become an important component of asset allocation for many high-net-worth individuals.

Future Outlook: Continued Positive Trend for the Ancient Jade Market

The auction results from Xiling Yinshe undoubtedly set a positive tone for the ancient jade market in 2026. We anticipate the following trends in the ancient jade market:

  • Emphasis on high-quality pieces will become more prominent: Collectors will increasingly favor pieces with superior jade quality, exquisite craftsmanship, and clear provenance. The price gap between ordinary and top-tier collectibles will further widen.

  • Enhanced interaction between academic research and the market: As the cultural connotations and historical value of ancient jade are further explored, academic research findings will increasingly influence market valuations, enhancing the cultural added value of collectibles.

  • Increased international market attention: With the growing influence of Chinese culture, overseas collectors' interest in Chinese ancient jade will continue to rise, potentially attracting more international buyers to participate in bidding.

  • Integrated online and offline development: Auction houses will continue to explore models that combine online auctions with offline previews, expanding reach and improving transaction efficiency.


In conclusion, the high-value sale of the Qianlong white jade ruyi scepter is not just a successful auction but also strong proof of the future growth potential of the ancient jade market. Against a backdrop of increasingly mature collecting philosophies and growing cultural confidence, the ancient jade sector is poised to usher in a more prosperous spring in the coming years.