Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Sceptre Fetches Over 3 Million Yuan: Qianlong Jade Market Remains Robust, Fine Ancient Jade Values Continue to Climb
[Hong Kong, January 14, 2026] At today's Asian Art auction held by Bonhams, a highly anticipated Qianlong period white jade 'Fushou Shuangquan' (Double Blessings of Longevity and Prosperity) ruyi sceptre was sold for RMB 3,052,967 (including buyer's premium). This figure significantly surpassed its lower estimate of RMB 1,999,785, fully demonstrating the market appeal and rarity of imperial jade from the Qianlong era. The sceptre stood out in fierce bidding and was ultimately acquired by an Asian private collector, once again confirming the strong position of fine ancient jade in the global art market.
Item Details and Artistic Value
The white jade ruyi sceptre, Lot 5906, boasts a warm luster and pure white color, with subtle natural russet inclusions, characteristic of superior Hetian white jade. Approximately 38 cm in length, the sceptre features an elegant form and exquisite craftsmanship. The head is carved in high relief with bats and peaches, symbolizing 'Fushou Shuangquan' (blessings and longevity), while the shaft is unadorned, showcasing the beauty of the jade material. The entire piece is meticulously polished, with a subtle sheen, conforming to the aesthetic standards and craftsmanship of imperial jade from the Qianlong period. Emperor Qianlong's profound fondness for jade elevated jade carving art during his reign to its zenith in Chinese history. At that time, imperial jade workshops gathered the nation's finest artisans, sparing no expense to select premium materials and create a vast array of exquisite jade objects. Ruyi sceptres were among the most representative, embodying cultural connotations of auspiciousness, power, and blessings.
Market Analysis: Qianlong Jade Continues to Soar, Broad Prospects for Ancient Jade Market
The successful sale of this Qianlong white jade ruyi sceptre is not an isolated incident but rather a microcosm of the current art market's fervent pursuit of fine ancient jade, particularly imperial jade from the Qianlong period. The estimated range provided by Bonhams (RMB 1,999,785 - 3,999,571) indicates a generally high market expectation for such high-quality ancient jade. The final hammer price, while not reaching the upper estimate, significantly exceeded the lower estimate, demonstrating a high level of buyer appreciation for the item.
1. Driven by Rarity and Cultural Value: Qianlong jade, due to its exquisite craftsmanship, superior material, and profound cultural symbolism, is increasingly rare given its limited extant quantity. Furthermore, the growing global influence of traditional Chinese culture makes objects like ruyi sceptres, imbued with auspicious meanings, even more sought after.
2. Evolving Collector Demographics: With the global redistribution of wealth and the rise of collector groups in emerging markets, interest and purchasing power for traditional Chinese art have significantly increased. These new collectors not only consider the investment value of artworks but also their cultural significance and aesthetic appeal.
3. Market Confidence and Resilience: Against a backdrop of increased global economic uncertainty, the art market, especially for rare and historically traceable antique artworks, is seen as a relatively stable investment option. Fine ancient jade, with its characteristics of value preservation and appreciation, has become an important component of asset allocation for high-net-worth individuals.
4. Auction House Strategy: International auction houses like Bonhams, through their deep cultivation in the Asian art sector, professional curation, rigorous authentication, and global promotion, provide high-quality trading platforms for fine ancient jade, further invigorating the market.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the market for fine ancient jade, particularly imperial jade from the Qianlong period, still has vast potential for value growth. As research deepens and connoisseurship improves, ancient jade pieces with clear provenance, excellent condition, and superb craftsmanship will continue to be highly coveted by collectors. However, the market is not without its challenges. Factors such as rampant fakes, difficulties in authentication, and global economic fluctuations can all impact the market. Therefore, for collectors, choosing reputable auction houses, relying on professional appraisal institutions, and thoroughly researching item backgrounds are key to mitigating risks and achieving successful collecting. The successful auction of this Qianlong white jade ruyi sceptre undoubtedly injected a strong boost of confidence into the ancient jade market, signaling that the spring for fine ancient jade continues.