Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Fetches 6.73 Million, Signaling Steady Growth in Ancient Jade Market

Qianlong White Jade Ruyi Fetches 6.73 Million, Signaling Steady Growth in Ancient Jade Market

BEIJING, January 27, 2026 – At Beijing Kuangshi's winter auction today, a highly anticipated Qianlong Period white jade 'Fushou Shuangquan' Ruyi scepter was hammered down for a remarkable RMB 6,736,651, significantly exceeding its lower estimate of RMB 4,451,992. This outcome underscores the strong demand and confidence in high-quality ancient jade within the market. This piece, Lot 2651, stood out as a highlight of the auction due to its exceptional jade quality, exquisite craftsmanship, and auspicious symbolism.

Item Analysis: A Perfect Blend of Imperial Grandeur and Exquisite Craftsmanship

This successfully auctioned Qianlong white jade ruyi is a quintessential example of Qing dynasty jade carving art, excelling in material, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. It is crafted from premium Hetian white jade, known for its warm, pure, and lustrous texture, with occasional natural russet inclusions adding to its antique beauty. During the Qing dynasty, Hetian jade, due to its rarity and unique physical properties, was reserved for imperial use, symbolizing power and nobility. Emperor Qianlong, in particular, had a deep fondness for jade, and under his patronage, Qing dynasty jade carving reached an unprecedented peak.

In terms of design, this ruyi adheres to the classic imperial ruyi style of the Qing dynasty. The head is carved with bats and peaches, symbolizing 'Fushou Shuangquan' (double blessings and longevity), embodying aspirations for a good life. The scrolling lotus motifs on the handle not only enrich the visual layers but also reflect common auspicious patterns in Qing dynasty decorative arts. The entire piece exhibits meticulous carving, fluid lines, delicate polishing, and a subtle luster, all indicative of the rigorous standards and refinement expected of imperial artifacts. This artistic style, which seamlessly blends exquisite skill with auspicious symbolism, is a hallmark of Qing dynasty imperial jade.

Market Trends: Ancient Jade Sector Continues to Strengthen, Premium Pieces Stand Out

The high price achieved by this Qianlong white jade ruyi is not an isolated incident but rather a microcosm of the overall positive trend in the ancient jade market. In recent years, despite global economic uncertainties, the art market, particularly the Chinese antique art market, has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Within this, the ancient jade sector has performed exceptionally well, with the value of premium ancient jade pieces continuously rising.

Firstly, the collector base is maturing. With China's sustained economic development, the demand for cultural and artistic artifacts among high-net-worth individuals is growing. They are no longer solely pursuing quantity but are increasingly focused on the historical and cultural value, artistic merit, and scarcity of auction items. For ancient jade pieces like this Qianlong white jade ruyi, with clear provenance, excellent condition, and superb craftsmanship, their intrinsic value is fully recognized.

Secondly, resource scarcity drives price increases. High-quality Hetian jade material is becoming increasingly scarce, and the jade used for Qing dynasty imperial artifacts was even more selectively chosen. The non-renewable nature of this resource dictates its continuous appreciation in value. Furthermore, the complex and time-consuming production process of Qing dynasty imperial jade, which is difficult to replicate today, adds to its unique collectible value.

Thirdly, the return of cultural confidence. With the revival of excellent traditional Chinese culture, people's understanding and love for indigenous art are deepening. Ancient jade, as an important carrier of Chinese civilization, with its profound historical and cultural heritage, attracts an increasing number of collectors and investors. They view it not only as an investment but also as a vehicle for cultural transmission.

Finally, increased international market recognition. As the influence of Chinese art on the international stage grows, more international collectors are paying attention to and collecting Chinese ancient jade. This not only broadens the buyer base for the ancient jade market but also further enhances its international value.

Future Outlook: Rational Investment, Focus on Heritage

While the ancient jade market has broad prospects, investors still need to maintain rationality. When selecting auction items, the following points should be prioritized:

• Jade Quality and Craftsmanship: Prioritize pieces with superior jade quality, exquisite carving, and excellent condition.


• Provenance and Heritage: Pieces with clear and well-documented provenance offer greater value assurance.


• Historical and Cultural Value: A deep understanding of the historical stories and cultural connotations behind the piece helps enhance the depth of the collection.

The successful auction of this Qianlong white jade ruyi undoubtedly injected a shot in the arm for the ancient jade market. It not only reconfirmed the strong market appeal of high-quality ancient jade but also foreshadows that the ancient jade sector will remain a significant highlight in the art market in the coming years. For collectors, this is not just an investment but also a valuable opportunity to engage with history and preserve culture.